In 2024, Mr. Aan Khosihan, together with a distinguished team of scholars, published the article “Disaster, Environment and Local Indigenous Knowledge in Indonesia” in the E3S Web of Conferences journal. Mr. Khosihan’s significant contribution advanced the integration of indigenous knowledge into disaster adaptation strategies. The article highlights Indonesia’s unique vulnerability to natural disasters, given its location on tectonic plates within the Pacific Ring of Fire and its tropical climate.

Over centuries, Indonesian communities have developed intricate indigenous knowledge systems to adapt to earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, landslides, volcanic eruptions, and epidemics. This wisdom is primarily passed down orally through traditions, vernacular architecture, customary practices, poetry, and social institutions. Notable examples include the Smong tradition in Aceh, which warns of tsunamis, the construction of stilt houses in flood-prone areas, and the influential role of spiritual leaders in disaster preparedness.

Despite its enduring value, much of this knowledge remains undocumented and only partially adapted to contemporary challenges such as climate change. The article argues that integrating indigenous wisdom with modern disaster management can enhance community resilience and promote culturally sensitive, sustainable mitigation strategies. Ongoing research is essential to bridge traditional practices with current environmental realities, supporting effective disaster risk reduction in Indonesia.

Author: Jessica Audrey Marseli