Approaches for Disaster Risk Reduction and Management in the Context of Islam

Abstract

Disaster management is a global responsibility to cope with the adverse situations. Developed countries have huge investment in integration of Disaster Risk Reduction measures in their daily life development programs and are well equipped in technology to avert a hazard into a normal event or minimize the sufferings caused by disasters. Developing nations are still focusing only on post disaster response and relief activities yet neglecting the aspect of Disaster Risk Reduction. For development to be sustainable, it is important to incorporate risk element in their routine life. Muslim world was progressively developed in science till 1600 but unfortunately they lack behind in science and technology after 17th century. The teachings of Quran and Hadith stressed on the planning and preparedness against any future haphazard. Islam is a complete religion with complete teachings for the wellbeing of the humanity. Our Prophet Muhammad (SAW) Sunnah is a complete guidance for us to live in harmony and peace. This paper will guide us to follow the teachings of Islam, Quran and Hadith in order to build our capacities and to better prepared against disasters. Benefit from the Islamic teaching, learning from the preparedness strategies against future hazards in light of the strategies being taken by the Messengers of Allah and relate the essentials of risk reduction to make a standard mechanism for Risk Communication and education at community level.