Two decades after the devastating earthquake and tsunami that hit Aceh, Indonesia on December 26, 2004, survivors like Qurrata Ayuni have found ways to transform their resilience into purpose. Ayuni, a 28-year-old survivor who lost her parents and younger sister in the tragedy, now runs a café in Aceh that serves as a welcoming space for everyone, especially women. Despite Aceh’s male-dominated coffee culture, Ayuni empowers and employs women in the region worst hit by the disaster.
Infrastructure in Aceh has been rebuilt and is now stronger than before the tsunami. The region has implemented early warning systems to alert residents of potential tsunamis. At a public high school in Lhoknga, students regularly participate in disaster simulations, preparing to evacuate in the event of an earthquake and tsunami. Teachers at the school, some of whom are survivors of the 2004 disaster, educate students about the history of the tsunami to ensure they are prepared to respond to future disasters.
The school, located about one kilometer from the shore, was totally destroyed by the tsunami in 2004. Today, the teachers who experienced the disaster as teenagers are educating a new generation of students about the importance of disaster preparedness. Through regular disaster simulations and education about tsunamis, students are learning to remain alert and ready to evacuate to safer places when required. By equipping students with vital earthquake and tsunami information, the school aims to minimize casualties in the event of a future disaster.
Survivors like Ayuni, who faced the disaster at a young age, hope that the younger generation will not forget the impact of the 2004 tsunami. While Aceh has made significant progress in rebuilding its infrastructure and economy, it is crucial for future generations to remember the lessons learned from the tragedy. By educating students about the history of the tsunami and conducting regular disaster simulations, schools in Aceh are preparing the next generation to respond effectively to natural disasters.
Through initiatives like Ayuni’s café, which empowers women and creates a welcoming space for all, and the education system’s focus on disaster preparedness, Aceh is rebuilding its resilience in the face of future challenges. As survivors reflect on the 20th anniversary of the tsunami, they emphasize the importance of remembering the past to ensure a safer future. By honoring the memory of those lost in the 2004 disaster and equipping the younger generation with the knowledge and skills to respond to emergencies, Aceh is paving the way for a more resilient and prepared community.
