Tsunamis are one of the most devastating natural phenomena, having a widespread impact on coastal areas throughout the world. Countries with coastlines, especially those located on the Pacific “Ring of Fire”, are the main targets of tsunami impacts. In general, the impact of the tsunami can be grouped into several aspects: environmental, social and economic. The environmental impact of tsunamis is very significant. Large waves that sweep ashore not only destroy infrastructure, but also damage coastal ecosystems, including coral reefs and mangroves. This destruction disrupts important habitats for various marine species. In addition, soil salinity increases due to seawater intrusion, which results in low agricultural productivity. This condition can take years to recover. Social aspects are also deeply affected. Many coastal communities lost their homes and shelter in a matter of seconds. The loss of life, which often amounts to thousands, causes lasting psychological trauma. Children’s education is disrupted, with schools damaged and educational resources lost. In addition, population displacement due to the destruction of social infrastructure increases social challenges, such as conflict and economic jealousy. In the economic aspect, the tsunami destroyed vital sectors. Agriculture, fisheries and tourism, which are sources of livelihood for coastal communities, have experienced significant losses. Damage to ports, which are often centers of trade, slowed economic recovery. The tourism sector, which usually promises growth, saw a drastic decline in tourist arrivals post-tsunami, affecting the local economy. In addition, the recovery and reconstruction process demands large resources. Governments and international organizations need to invest in building more resilient infrastructure. A sustainable approach, which includes strengthening coastal ecosystems and mitigating disaster risks, is very important. The tsunami also triggered changes in disaster management policies and approaches. It is hoped that communities in tsunami-prone areas will become increasingly aware of the importance of early warning systems and preparedness training. Efforts to increase community resilience to disasters must be carried out collaboratively. Meanwhile, technology can play a role in mitigating the impact of tsunamis. More sophisticated early warning systems help coastal communities get information more quickly and react better. Research and development in the field of tsunami simulation can also provide deeper insight into wave patterns and behavior, assisting in better infrastructure planning and development. On a global scale, international cooperation is very important. Tsunami-affected countries must share knowledge and resources to face this challenge effectively. The exchange of information, as well as experience in dealing with disasters, can help reduce future risks. The impact of tsunamis on the world’s coastal areas is not only limited to when the disaster occurs. The process of recovery and adaptation lasts for years. Building resilience and adaptability is key to ensuring that coastal communities are able to face the impacts of similar disasters in the future.
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