Media Engagement in Communicating Disaster Risk after the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami: A Perspective from Aceh

Abstract

The conflict that lasted in Aceh for approximately 32 years, followed by the tsunami of 2004, had a significant impact by causing numerous casualties as well as material and nonmaterial losses. As a result, the media in Aceh recognized the need to be more active in reporting news about disasters and disaster mitigation. The role of the media as a liaison between the government and the community has been regulated by law, including as related to the publication of disaster mitigation efforts. The purpose of this study is to determine the role and involvement of the media in supporting disaster risk reduction and communicating disaster risks through the Acehnese community. This study used descriptive qualitative methods to obtain an actual picture of the involvement and role of the media in Aceh in communicating disaster risk. The results of this study indicate that the media in Aceh have not played a significant role in providing disaster risk information. Disaster programs trended and presented in the media mostly during the emergency stage, being less common after the disaster event.