Jakarta – The government has reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating Aceh’s post-disaster recovery by encouraging the transition from the emergency response phase to rehabilitation and reconstruction.
The main focus is directed at meeting the most pressing needs, such as clean water, electricity, health services, and restoring community economic activity.
This affirmation was conveyed by the Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture (Menko PMK), Pratikno, while leading a coordination meeting across ministries and institutions with local governments, security forces, state-owned enterprises, and volunteers at the Aceh Governor’s Office.
“I came here to ensure that priorities are clear. There are many problems to be solved, but we must prioritize the most important ones,” said Pratikno.
According to him, a number of basic services are still facing obstacles, ranging from hospitals that are not yet operating optimally, residents who have not been able to return to cleaning their homes, to disruptions in gas station operations and regional connectivity.
“This isn’t just about the network, but also about clean water, electricity, and public facilities so people can get back to their activities,” he said.
The government is also focusing on accelerating budget disbursement. Pratikno stated that the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has begun the process of disbursing emergency funds, including assistance for lightly, moderately, and severely damaged houses.
“We will monitor the acceleration of assistance for living expenses and home repairs, including for damaged rice fields and gardens,” he stressed.
Beyond meeting basic needs, local economic recovery is a primary concern. The central government is coordinating with several ministries to encourage MSMEs to resume operations.
“If money circulation increases, demand will grow. But we also have to consider the supply side. MSMEs need to get moving again,” explained Pratikno.
In terms of connectivity, Telkomsel noted that more than 90 percent of its network in Aceh has returned to operation.
Telkomsel’s Vice President of Area Network Operations for Sumatra, Nugroho A. Wibowo, said the recovery was carried out with safety and service continuity in mind.
“Networks aren’t just infrastructure. Behind every site that’s back online is the hope of the community returning to their normal activities,” he said.
Amidst the recovery process, the public is urged to remain vigilant against potential provocation.
Acehnese academic and social observer, Wiratmadinata, reminded residents not to be influenced by certain political agendas.
“Currently, there are efforts by certain groups to exploit the psychological vulnerability of disaster victims,” he said.
He urged the public to remain calm, united, and prioritize recovery to maintain peace and sustainability in Aceh.