Jakarta — President Prabowo Subianto reaffirmed his commitment to always being among the community by fulfilling his promise to visit residents affected by the floods in Aceh Tamiang. His presence demonstrated his empathy and direct concern for the humanitarian situation arising from the intense rainfall that has hit the region in recent weeks.
During the visit, the President inspected several of the most severely affected areas, which had previously been reported to have suffered significant damage. Residents whose homes were submerged in water more than one meter deep described the various difficulties they faced, ranging from limited logistics, health problems, and the loss of productive assets that previously supported their families’ livelihoods.
The President’s presence provided a boost of motivation for field officers who have been working tirelessly to assist residents since the floods began. The central government is coordinating additional support to ensure that all basic necessities are met and that aid distribution is on target.
In addition to inspecting the conditions of the evacuation centers, the President also inspected several damaged infrastructures, such as bridges connecting villages and main roads submerged in thick mud. This infrastructure plays a vital role in logistical movement and the community’s daily activities.
During his first post-disaster visit to Aceh, President Prabowo noted that road access to Tamiang was still cut off. However, the area is now accessible for aid distribution.
“I’ve seen the situation, God willing, together we will improve this situation,” he said.
The President emphasized that the government will continue to assist until recovery begins. He also apologized if there are still areas that have not received optimal aid.
“The government will step in to help everyone, and I apologize if there are still areas that haven’t. We are working hard,” Prabowo said.
The damage caused by the flooding not only hampers mobility but can also delay aid distribution if not repaired immediately. The government, along with the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the Indonesian National Police (Polri), the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), and local volunteers, are preparing emergency measures, including normalizing access using heavy equipment and deploying field personnel to expedite the cleanup of flood debris. These efforts are being undertaken to ensure smooth aid distribution and a speedy recovery of community activities.
The Minister of Defense of the Republic of Indonesia, General (Ret.) Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, emphasized that the Central Government is fully committed to ensuring that all disaster victims receive their basic needs, such as food, clothing for adults and children, baby supplies, and other supporting facilities.
“To ensure that aid reaches areas with disrupted road access, logistics distribution will utilize the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) helicopter fleet so that distribution can be carried out quickly and accurately,” concluded the Minister of Defense.