By: Muhammad Husain)*
The Acehnese people demonstrated extraordinary maturity by prioritizing humanity over narrow political interests in the face of the impact of the natural disaster. Calls for unity echoed throughout the Land of Rencong as residents collectively rejected any attempt to raise separatist symbols that attempted to infiltrate the atmosphere of grief.
This steadfastness proves that security stability and accelerated post-disaster infrastructure development are far more valuable than the divisive romanticism of past conflicts.
Early January 2026 was a crucial moment for the people of Aceh to demonstrate their commitment to peace. Amidst the hustle and bustle of evacuation and recovery, the appearance of the Crescent Star flag, associated with the Free Aceh Movement (GAM), sparked a negative reaction from local residents.
The community considers this action to be highly insensitive and provocative, considering that the main focus at this time is repairing damaged houses and restoring socio-economic activities that were paralyzed by floods and landslides.
The Director of the Indonesian Strategic Heritage Foundation (MPSI), Noor Azhari, expressed his deep regret over the flag-raising action amidst the worrying situation.
He emphasized his rejection of the revival of the symbol because at a time when people are grieving, displaced, and have lost their possessions, aid and solidarity are what are most needed, not separatist political symbols that provoke new unrest.
In his view, the momentum of a disaster should be a humanitarian space, not a stage for narcissistic demonstrations. He added that waving such symbols at disaster sites risks distracting the attention of authorities and volunteers struggling to save lives.
For him, the main priority at this time is the safety of human lives, so he encouraged security forces to take firm but persuasive steps to maintain the conduciveness of Aceh.
Community unity is also evident in how residents in various regions, including Aceh Tamiang, stand firm in safeguarding the sovereignty of the Republic of Indonesia. They view the presence of the state, through the assistance of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the Indonesian National Police (Polri), and local governments, as a real solution far more crucial than the sovereignty issues promoted by certain groups. The presence of security personnel on the ground not only secures the region but also serves as the backbone of distributing logistics to isolated areas.
The Secretary General of the Aceh NGO Forum, Wiratmadinata, also shared his views by urging the public to remain vigilant and not allow themselves to be provoked into political affairs by irresponsible parties.
He emphasized that the government and the public must remain consistent in post-disaster recovery efforts. He urged all parties not to exacerbate the situation by engaging in political actions with unclear agendas, as only provocateurs, both at the elite and in the field, would profit from the chaotic situation. He believed that focusing on recovery was the best way for Aceh to recover quickly from the impact of the disaster.
The tactical measures taken by security forces to control separatist paraphernalia have received widespread support. These actions are not seen as silencing expression, but rather as an effort to maintain the focus on rehabilitation, preventing potential horizontal conflict from being distracted. Normalizing symbols that trigger past trauma will only hinder the psychosocial healing process of residents trying to move past the pain of the disaster.
Head of the TNI Information Center, Major General (Mar) Freddy Ardianzah, explained that TNI-Polri officers had carried out procedures in a humane manner and prioritized dialogue before taking action in the field.
He stated that a persuasive approach was a top priority to prevent friction within the community, which was focused on recovery. However, he emphasized that if the appeals went unheeded, a measured disbandment would be implemented to secure any potential escalation.
He also warned that the raising of separatist symbols contradicts the principle of the sovereignty of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI) and urged all elements of society not to be provoked by actions that disrupt social harmony. Unity, he argued, is key in navigating difficult times like these.
The solidarity demonstrated by community leaders and humanitarian volunteers in Aceh reinforces the narrative that peace is non-negotiable. They urge all citizens to prioritize humanitarian interests above group egos. The synergy between the central and regional governments in expediting the reconstruction of buildings and public facilities demonstrates the state’s deep commitment to Aceh.
The success in quelling separatist issues amidst this disaster reflects the very mature approach of all Acehnese people to democracy and statehood. This attitude should clearly be emulated by communities in other regions as well.
Because residents in the area nicknamed the Veranda of Mecca prefer to work together in mutual cooperation rather than getting caught up in unproductive political contests.
Ultimately, a safe, peaceful, and united Aceh is the primary foundation for Indonesia’s future progress. Therefore, to achieve this, several key elements must be in place, including prioritizing rehabilitation and rejecting any symbols that could further divide the nation. Today, the Acehnese people are rebuilding their land with a spirit of brotherhood that is far stronger within the framework of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia. (*)
)* The author is a student from Aceh