Jakarta (ANTARA) - The National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) is facing operational challenges as budget constraints have hampered the maintenance of its rescue fleet and equipment.Basarnas head Mohammad Syafii told Commission V of the House of Representatives (DPR) in Jakarta on Tuesday that of 23 ships scheduled for dock maintenance this year, only 14 could be serviced and eight have been completed as of November.
He said that only five of 12 SAR aircraft and helicopters can operate alternately due to limited maintenance funds.
"This condition has made asset maintenance less optimal and may lower safety standards," he said.
Syafii noted that the government's budget-blocking policy for efficiency has posed major challenges for Basarnas, which operates 45 offices, 77 posts, and 70 standby units nationwide.
Basarnas initially received a 2025 budget allocation of Rp1.49 trillion (around US$89 million), but Rp409.14 billion was temporarily blocked before the agency received two budget relaxations.
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In response, Syafii said Basarnas has proposed additional funds for helicopter maintenance, procurement of high-angle rescue equipment, and higher fuel costs for vessels.
However, the proposals cannot cover all maintenance needs, including communication systems, early detection tools, and rescue information technology networks, he added.
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He emphasized that maintaining rescue equipment remains a top priority as it directly affects personnel safety and operational effectiveness.
"Reliable equipment ensures quick response and safety in every rescue mission," he said.
