The Resilience of the Acehnese Community and Government Collaboration Becomes the Key to Facing Disasters
Aceh – The resilience of the Acehnese community in facing floods and landslides has once again been demonstrated through strong collaboration between residents, the government, and various stakeholders. This collaboration has become the main key to rapid, coordinated, and independent emergency response without reliance on foreign assistance.
The Indonesian Social Forestry Community Communication Forum (FKMPI) distributed emergency aid to residents affected by floods and landslides in Aceh. This aid distribution is part of the Forestry Sector Disaster Response Program, initiated to respond to hydrometeorological disasters in the Sumatra region. The program not only focuses on logistical assistance but also strengthens cross-sector synergy to ensure disaster response efforts are effective and well coordinated.
The Chairman of APHI, representing FKMPI, Soewarso, emphasized that this initiative is a form of social responsibility from the forestry sector.
“The floods that struck the people of Aceh Tamiang became a call for us to directly provide assistance. The support distributed is not merely logistical aid, but a manifestation of empathy and solidarity,” he said.
He added that concern for the community is an important part of the principles of sustainable forest management.
“Sustainability is not only measured by environmental and economic aspects, but also by the extent to which this sector is present and provides tangible benefits to society, especially during times of crisis,” Soewarso stated.
Meanwhile, Member of Commission II of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Ujang Bey, expressed confidence in national capabilities to handle disasters in Aceh.
“The government remains optimistic that it is capable of handling the flood issues occurring in Aceh,” he said.
He emphasized, “The absence of a green light for foreign assistance shows that the government has conducted careful assessments and has the capacity to address all existing challenges,” Bey added.
He also urged the government to move quickly and simultaneously to ensure that residents’ needs are met promptly.
The presence of the state has also been reinforced through the role of security forces. The Aceh Regional Police recorded intensive health services for affected residents through Operation Aman Nusa II 2025.
“Overall, from November 27 to December 17, 2025, the Aceh Regional Police, through the Medical Sub-task Force, have provided health services to 10,931 residents affected by natural disasters,” said Head of Public Relations of the Aceh Regional Police, Senior Commissioner Joko Krisdiyanto.
From the central government level, Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi emphasized the government’s stance on self-reliance.
“At this time, there are no such plans. However, on behalf of the Government of the Republic of Indonesia, we continue to express our gratitude for the great attention given by friendly countries,” he said.
The government considers national coordination to remain effective, reflecting that Aceh is able to recover through its own strength, supported by community solidarity and state readiness.
