Success Of "Basarnas" Depends On Leadership

Merak, Banten, March 5 (Antara) - President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has stated that the success of the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) depends on its leadership and good coordination. "All of you carry an important mission pertaining to the life and safety of the people when disasters and accidents strike," President Yudhoyono informed Basarnas members and volunteers at Merak port, here on Wednesday. The head of state made the statement at the 42nd anniversary of the National Search and Rescue Agency at the dock of Merak port. Realizing the important task of Basarnas, President Yudhoyono advised the agency to continue to maintain its good coordination and leadership. "Good leadership and control of the operation and coordination will determine the success of Basarnas," the president noted, adding that the members and volunteers of the agency should continue to improve their technical, physical and mental capabilities. Building national capacities to respond quickly to disasters and save maximum number of lives is an important focus of the National Search and Rescue Agency. Established on February 28, 1972, Basarnas has 33 chapters in provinces across the country. In conjunction with Basarnas` anniversary this time, President Yudhoyono also officially launched two 59-meter-long catamaran boats, called "KN Pacitan" and "KB Purworejo" respectively, to be operated by the agency. The new speedboats, with the speed of 29 knots, will be able to operate even in bad weather. The boats also have helipads. On the occasion, there was also save and rescue demonstrations by Basarnas personnel supported by, among other things, two CASA aircraft, two Dauphin helicopters, two BO-105 helicopters, two catamaran rescue boats, two hovercrafts, nine rubber boats, two ambulances, and two amphibious boats. Besides the President, the event was also attended by Coordinating Minister for Political, Law and Security Affairs Djoko Suanto, Coordinating Minister for People`s Welfare Agung Laksono, Minister/State Secretary Sudi Silalahi, Cabinet Secretary Dipo Alam, and Basarnas Chief Lt.Gen. M. Alfan Baharuddin.