Muhaimin Iskandar, the Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment, has drawn significant attention to the devastating impact of recent disasters in Sumatra. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Cak Imin promptly dispatched letters to key ministers, urging a comprehensive and total evaluation of existing environmental policies.
The letters were specifically addressed to three cabinet members: Raja Juli Antoni, Minister of Forestry; Bahlil Lahadalia, Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM); and Hanif Faisol Nurofiq, Minister of Environment. This direct communication underscores the government’s perceived commitment to tackling environmental challenges head-on.
“Today, I sent letters to the Minister of Forestry, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, and the Minister of Environment, for us to collaboratively conduct a total evaluation. An evaluation of our policies and actions, as a tangible manifestation of our commitment and earnestness as a government,” Cak Imin stated during the Workshop for School Principals for the SMK Go Global Program in Bandung, West Java, on Monday, December 1. He further described this crucial initiative using the term “taubatan nasuha,” a phrase from Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) tradition.
Cak Imin elaborated that the “taubatan nasuha” he invoked signifies a profound and complete overhaul of all environmental policies. This comprehensive review, he stressed, must encompass every stage, from initial planning to future implementation, ensuring long-term sustainability and accountability.
Issuing a stark warning about the consequences of environmental neglect, Cak Imin declared, “The apocalypse is not merely approaching; the apocalypse has already arrived due to our own negligence.” He concluded with a message of solidarity, expressing hope that “those currently experiencing this calamity receive immediate assistance, and may patience accompany us all,” highlighting the critical need for both immediate relief and a fundamental shift in environmental stewardship.
Summary
Muhaimin Iskandar, the Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment, highlighted the devastating impact of recent disasters in Sumatra, prompting him to urge a total evaluation of environmental policies. He sent letters to the Ministers of Forestry, Energy and Mineral Resources, and Environment to collaboratively review existing policies and actions. This critical initiative, described as “taubatan nasuha,” signifies a profound and complete overhaul of all environmental policies.
Cak Imin emphasized that this “taubatan nasuha” demands a comprehensive review encompassing every stage from planning to future implementation, ensuring long-term sustainability and accountability. He issued a stark warning about environmental neglect, stating, “the apocalypse has already arrived due to our own negligence.” He concluded by expressing hope for immediate assistance for those affected and collective patience.