Indonesia is set to enhance its national tsunami early warning system by integrating submarine optical cable technology, aiming to improve the accuracy and reach of detection in seismically active regions, according to a report by TV BRICS, citing "Antara News".
The initiative will be incorporated into the warning system currently managed by the Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG).
BMKG Head Dwikorita Karnawati emphasized the importance of advancing technological innovation to bolster the country’s disaster preparedness infrastructure.
“This technological innovation research is needed to strengthen the existing tsunami early warning system,” Karnawati said.
While traditionally used for telecommunications and data transfer, submarine optical cables can also detect variations in underwater pressure and wave activity—key indicators of potential tsunami events.
Given Indonesia’s expansive marine territory and the prevalence of undersea cables, this dual-use application offers a cost-effective and wide-reaching solution.
“If this optical cable can detect tsunamis, then sensors can be more evenly distributed throughout the region, including marine areas that currently do not have a detection system,” Karnawati noted.
Addressing the growing threat of natural disasters—particularly the devastating impact of earthquakes and tsunamis—has emerged as a key focus of international cooperation.
In May 2025, BRICS member countries convened a ministerial meeting in Brasília to coordinate responses to climate-related disasters. During the session, member states agreed on a joint declaration and a 2025–2028 action plan, outlining priorities such as strengthening early warning systems, investing in resilient infrastructure, and integrating local knowledge into disaster risk manag strategies.