Sibolga — President Prabowo Subianto conducted a direct inspection of areas affected by floods and landslides in North Sumatra, which in recent days have suffered extensive damage. His visit served as moral support for the community while ensuring that all response measures are carried out swiftly, systematically, and with integrated national resources.
“I witnessed the conditions on the ground firsthand. Many access routes are cut off due to extreme weather. However, all relevant agencies have been working at maximum capacity to reopen roads and deliver aid as quickly as possible,” President Prabowo Subianto said in Sibolga.
The inspection was followed by directives to accelerate the distribution of logistics, medical assistance, and the securing of vulnerable areas. Air and sea operations have also been optimized to reach locations still isolated due to landslides and flooding. Fuel transport vessels have begun arriving at the port, while Hercules aircraft continue flying to distribute aid to affected areas.
“I express my gratitude to all elements who have acted swiftly. The TNI, Polri, Ministry of Public Works and Housing (PUPR), BNPB, and regional governments have demonstrated strong synergy in this emergency situation. This disaster is being faced with resilience and solidarity. This nation is strong and capable of overcoming this challenge,” President Prabowo emphasized.
The President’s presence and the government’s rapid actions have received appreciation from various parties. Deputy Chair of Commission IV of the House of Representatives (DPR RI), Alex Indra Lukman, stated that the President’s visit shows the central government’s strong commitment to ensuring that regions are not left to face disasters alone.
“As of now, aid has already been sent by President Prabowo using four aircraft. This is a real form of attention that should motivate local governments to accelerate their response efforts,” Alex Indra Lukman said.
He added that regional authorities need to speed up the data collection process on disaster impacts so that the flow of central government assistance can be more optimal and precisely targeted. The President’s actions, he noted, indicate that the central government is ready to fully back the recovery process.
“President Prabowo has given a strong signal that disaster response must be carried out collectively. The deployment of aid via four aircraft and two helicopters is proof that the government is not delaying its response,” Alex Indra Lukman added.
Meanwhile, Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Cultural Affairs, Pratikno, explained that the President’s directives have mobilized all ministries, agencies, and security forces to focus on emergency response efforts.
“The President’s instruction is to deploy all national resources for the current emergency phase to ease the burden on the people,” Pratikno said.
He added that relevant ministries and agencies have been on-site since the first day of the disaster, ensuring road access is reopened, electricity networks restored, and aid distribution carried out without obstacles. The government has also begun preparing for the rehabilitation and reconstruction phase, including the provision of temporary housing and repairs to vital infrastructure.
This integrated effort reflects that disaster management is not only focused on rapid response but also on sustainable recovery. The solidarity of all government elements demonstrates that the strength of the nation lies in its unity when facing major challenges. The government continues to ensure that every response step brings safety, hope, and certainty to affected residents. (*)