By: Teuku Faisal Ibrahim
President Prabowo Subianto chose to demonstrate concrete work on the ground in response to the floods and landslides that struck several areas in Sumatra. From late 2025 to early 2026, the head of state consistently prioritized direct presence, accelerated recovery, and evidence-based decision-making as the primary approaches in handling the humanitarian crisis.
This symbolic and substantive step was evident when the President spent New Year’s Eve in Batu Hula Village, South Tapanuli. This presence emphasized that the state was not distancing itself from the suffering of the affected residents.
The President then continued his early-year work agenda by visiting the disaster site in Aceh Tamiang, greeting evacuees, and directly inspecting the progress of temporary housing construction. This pattern demonstrates a leadership strategy that prioritizes direct observation before making strategic decisions.
This field approach did not stop with symbolic visits. The President instructed ministries and agencies to work tirelessly to accelerate the recovery of residents’ lives.
Schools and health facilities were the first priority to ensure the resumption of basic services. At the same time, the government is accelerating the construction of temporary and permanent housing for residents displaced by floods and landslides.
Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi explained that the President demands a swift and coordinated recovery process. The President directed that any obstacles in the field be immediately identified and joint solutions sought.
A direct inspection of hundreds of temporary housing units in Aceh Tamiang demonstrated this commitment. The government recorded progress in the construction of approximately 600 units out of a total planned 15,000 housing units for the three affected provinces, some of which was supported by cross-stakeholder collaboration.
The President’s presence also served to consolidate central and regional coordination. Limited meetings with ministers, regional heads, and agency leaders were held directly at the disaster site.
This working model allows the central government to obtain a picture of the real needs of the regions and quickly correct ineffective policies. Direct interaction with residents also strengthens public trust that the state is present not just through statements but through action.
In the strategic infrastructure sector, the President oversaw the restoration of transportation access that was disrupted by the disaster. The inspection of the Bailey Bridge construction on the Garoga River in South Tapanuli demonstrated the government’s focus on connectivity as a key to economic recovery and aid distribution. The President also directed the Cabinet Secretary to ensure that basic infrastructure restoration is the initial stage of rehabilitation in affected areas.
Long-term prevention aspects also received serious attention. The President approved the formation of the Kuala Task Force, tasked with normalizing shallow rivers affected by mud sedimentation.
Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin explained that river dredging not only aims to prevent recurring flooding but also facilitates the mobilization of heavy equipment and the utilization of muddy water for clean water. The operation is designed as a large-scale engineering project involving the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), local governments, and engineering experts.
The President responded to the proposal with full support, including in terms of financing. The Head of State emphasized that budgetary matters should not hinder public safety.
The government has prepared a funding commitment of tens of trillions of rupiah to ensure the optimal operation of the river normalization. This stance demonstrates the courage to make fiscal decisions for the long-term benefit of the community.
In terms of leadership, the Head of State views criticism and criticism as part of the consequences of his position. In a number of closed meetings, the President emphasized that leaders must be prepared to accept attacks from opinion, but must not lose focus on alleviating the suffering of the people.
The presence of officials at disaster sites, according to President Prabowo Subianto, aims to identify deficiencies, understand problems, and make expedited decisions, not merely for ceremonial purposes. Unfortunately, many members of the public still don’t understand this.
A work approach based on concrete evidence is the common thread throughout the government’s policies. The President chooses to let the results of work on the ground speak for themselves, directly and tangibly, and be felt by all disaster-affected communities, rather than simply rehashing narratives.
Transparency in aid distribution and accountability for budget use continue to be emphasized to preventThis will not allow for any potential malfeasance by individuals at any level or by any means. The President also continues to open up space for active public participation in the form of aid, provided that the mechanism is clear and its distribution can be directly monitored.
This series of steps has clearly demonstrated that the government’s response to the floods and landslides that occurred in several regions, including Aceh and Sumatra, is not solely reactive.
Instead, President Prabowo combines direct presence, resource mobilization, bold budget policies, and strict oversight as a unified strategy for disaster management.
This field evidence confirms the government’s active, decisive, and measured role in addressing the crisis. The government’s efforts also provide a strong foundation for a more sustainable recovery for affected communities. (*)
National Political Observer – Mandala Raya Political Forum