Government Undertakes Holistic Post-Disaster Response in Sumatra
Jakarta, – The Indonesian government continues to intensify post-disaster response to the floods and landslides that struck several areas on the island of Sumatra, including Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. President Prabowo Subianto emphasized that post-disaster response must not be carried out in a piecemeal manner.
“The state must be fully present. We are not only rebuilding damaged homes, but also restoring the lives, livelihoods, and futures of the communities affected by the disaster,” said President Prabowo at a disaster management coordination meeting in Aceh Tamiang.
Holistic response is being carried out by integrating emergency response, rehabilitation, and medium- to long-term reconstruction measures to ensure comprehensive recovery for affected communities.
According to government data as of early January 2026, the hydrometeorological disaster caused more than a thousand fatalities, the displacement of tens of thousands of residents, and significant damage to homes, educational facilities, health services, and basic infrastructure. In response to this situation, the central government moved quickly, involving various ministries and agencies, regional governments, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri), as well as the support of the business community and the community.
The government has accelerated the construction of temporary housing (huntara) and prepared a permanent relocation program in areas deemed disaster-prone. Furthermore, the restoration of public facilities such as schools, community health centers, hospitals, and transportation facilities is a priority so that social and economic activities can quickly return to normal.
In the social sector, the Ministry of Social Affairs is distributing logistical assistance, cash assistance, and compensation for the families of the deceased and seriously injured. An economic recovery program is also being rolled out through assistance for micro-enterprises and community empowerment to enable affected residents to regain their independence.
Deputy Speaker of the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR RI), Hidayat Nur Wahid, expressed his appreciation for the government’s efforts to prioritize humanitarian aspects.
“This holistic approach is crucial so that communities not only survive the disaster but are also able to recover and continue their lives sustainably,” he said.
To support the program’s sustainability, the government is ensuring the availability of a disaster recovery budget without disrupting other national priority programs. Synergy with state-owned enterprises (SOEs), the private sector, and public participation is also continuously strengthened as part of national mutual cooperation.
With an integrated and sustainable approach, the government is optimistic that the post-disaster recovery process in Sumatra will be effective, equitable, and provide long-term protection for the community, while strengthening the region’s resilience to future disaster risks.