Why Search and Rescue Policy Matters Today
Indonesia’s geographic conditions make Search and Rescue operations a constant national priority. The country’s vast archipelago, mountainous terrain, dense forests, and frequent natural disasters demand rapid and well-coordinated emergency responses. SAR operations are not only technical rescue efforts but also a form of public policy implementation that reflects the state’s responsibility to protect its citizens.
In recent years, climate change, extreme weather, and population growth in high-risk areas have increased the pressure on emergency services. At the same time, SAR operations often involve multiple actors, including government agencies, security forces, volunteers, and local communities. Without strong communication systems and sufficient resources, coordination becomes difficult, and response times suffer.
This study places SAR operations within the broader field of public administration and policy implementation. It highlights that emergency response failures are not always caused by a lack of commitment, but often by structural issues such as delayed information flow, limited trained personnel, and inadequate equipment.
How the Research Was Conducted
The research used a qualitative, descriptive approach to understand how SAR operational policies work in practice. The authors gathered data through:
· In-depth interviews with key personnel involved in SAR operations
· Field observations of operational processes
· Analysis of official documents related to SAR policy and implementation
Rather than relying on statistics alone, the researchers focused on real-world experiences of SAR implementers. The collected information was reviewed, organized, and interpreted to identify recurring patterns related to communication and resource availability.
Key Findings: Where SAR Operations Struggle
The study found that SAR policy implementation is heavily influenced by two interconnected factors: communication and resources. Problems in one area tend to worsen problems in the other.
Major findings include:
· Delayed information flow: Initial reports about incidents often reach SAR units late. Details such as location, time, and victim condition are sometimes incomplete or slow to arrive.
· Unclear and changing information: SAR teams frequently receive partial or inconsistent updates, forcing them to adjust plans repeatedly in the field.
· Weak cross-agency coordination: Different agencies involved in SAR operations may receive or share different versions of information, leading to misaligned decisions and overlapping tasks.
· Shortage of skilled personnel: There are limited numbers of SAR staff with specialized training and certification, particularly in operational planning and control.
· High workload pressure: Skilled personnel are often required to handle multiple roles simultaneously, increasing stress and reducing decision-making quality during emergencies.
· Limited equipment and infrastructure: Available tools and facilities are not always suited to difficult terrain or extreme weather conditions.
· Budget constraints: Restricted funding affects equipment maintenance, staff training, and the development of modern communication systems.
The researchers emphasize that these challenges are not isolated. Poor communication increases the burden on limited resources, while resource shortages make communication problems more damaging.
What This Means for Public Safety and Policy
The findings carry important implications for policymakers, emergency management agencies, and local governments. Effective SAR operations depend not only on bravery and technical skills but also on administrative and managerial strength.
Strengthening integrated communication systems could significantly improve response times. Simplifying reporting mechanisms, using modern communication technology, and standardizing information sharing across agencies would reduce delays and confusion.
Investment in human resource development is equally critical. Continuous training, certification programs, and capacity building would increase the number of personnel qualified to plan and manage SAR operations. This would reduce workload pressure and improve decision-making during crises.
Adequate budget support and infrastructure investment are also essential. Well-maintained equipment and reliable facilities allow SAR teams to operate safely and effectively, especially in challenging environments.
According to the authors, “the success of Search and Rescue operations is closely tied to how clearly information is communicated and how well resources are prepared and managed,” highlighting that policy effectiveness depends on coordination as much as regulation.
Author Insight
Ethically paraphrasing the authors’ conclusions, Lisdiana of STISIPOL Candradimuka Palembang explains that SAR operations require more than formal authority. Clear communication channels and competent personnel are fundamental conditions for policies to work in real emergencies. Without them, even well-designed policies struggle to deliver results when lives are at stake.
Author Profiles
· Lisdiana, M.AP – Lecturer at STISIPOL Candradimuka Palembang, specializing in public administration and public policy implementation.
· Matsyuroh, M.AP – Academic researcher at STISIPOL Candradimuka Palembang with expertise in governance and public service management.
· Devi Mandahsari, M.AP – Lecturer and researcher at STISIPOL Candradimuka Palembang, focusing on administrative systems and emergency public services.
Source
Article Title: The Role of Communication and Resources in the Implementation of Search and Rescue (SAR) Operations Policy
Journal: Formosa Journal of Science and Technology
Year: 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.55927/fjst.v5i1.407
0 Komentar