Visiting the Sumatra Disaster Site, President Prabowo Affirms the State’s Presence for the People
By: Antonius Utomo )*
In recent months, Indonesia has been hit by natural disasters that have shocked many regions. From flash floods in Padang, Aceh, to the massive floods that hit Medan, these disasters have not only damaged infrastructure but also devastated the lives of people already struggling with various challenges. However, amidst the grief and hardship faced by residents, one thing is encouraging and gives hope: the government’s swift response. President Prabowo Subianto has visited the scene on several occasions to ensure the recovery process is proceeding smoothly and to strengthen the spirits of those affected by the disaster.
Houses were destroyed, roads were damaged, and many residents were trapped in the rubble. However, amidst the disaster, the government’s swift response was clearly evident. Search and rescue teams from various regions were deployed, along with volunteers who worked together to help the victims. Furthermore, emergency supplies such as food, medicine, and other supplies were immediately distributed.
Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka stated that the central government will expedite infrastructure recovery in Aceh Singkil Regency, Aceh, following the floods and landslides. He distributed Hydrometeorological Disaster Aid, consisting of 200 logistical packages containing 5 kg of rice, 1 liter of cooking oil, formula milk or UHT milk, medicines, dry bread or biscuits, instant noodles, and mineral water.
President Prabowo, upon hearing about the disaster, immediately led coordination between the central and regional governments to ensure the smooth evacuation and aid process. The President visited Aceh to provide support. His swift response and direct presence demonstrated the central government’s presence in every situation, even during times of crisis.
President Prabowo Subuanto stated that the government had dispatched three Hercules C130 aircraft and one A400 aircraft. “This is the umpteenth time we have sent aid.” The government acted swiftly from the first days, reacting by sending aid, both by land and air, and continuously addressing the needs of disaster victims.
Not only in Aceh, but a few days earlier, Padang was also hit by a major disaster in the form of flash floods caused by heavy rains that inundated the region for several consecutive days. The floods came quickly, inundating thousands of homes and damaging vital infrastructure. Many residents were forced to evacuate because their homes were submerged. This situation naturally left residents feeling anxious and isolated.
The West Sumatra Provincial Government also collaborated with various humanitarian organizations and the private sector to help expedite aid distribution. Shortly after the disaster, President Prabowo visited Padang to assess the situation on the ground. The visit was not only to ensure aid reached the right people but also to encourage residents struggling to recover.
President Prabowo also highlighted the importance of improving infrastructure in Padang, particularly the drainage system and buildings that were unable to withstand large volumes of water. With proper repairs, it is hoped that major floods like this can be minimized in the future. Furthermore, attention was paid to the psychological recovery of the disaster victims. Medan also faced significant challenges in dealing with this disaster. Thousands of people were forced to evacuate, and many public facilities and infrastructure were damaged. The Medan city government, in collaboration with the provincial and central governments, immediately mobilized to provide assistance to affected residents.
I Gusti Ketut Astawa, Deputy for Food Availability and Stabilization at the National Disaster Management Agency (Bapannas), stated, “We are providing this initial assistance as a demonstration of the concern and mutual cooperation of our partners, as well as all levels of the Ministry of Agriculture and the Food Agency, to ease the burden on the affected communities in Sumatra, including the city of Medan.”
President Prabowo, recognizing the significant impact of the flood, also visited Medan to observe the conditions on the ground. In addition to distributing aid in the form of food, medicine, and basic necessities, the President also encouraged the immediate implementation of infrastructure repairs after the waters receded. Rebuilding damaged bridges, roads, and drainage channels is a top priority to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The steps taken by President Prabowo and the government demonstrate responsive leadership and concern for the people. Through its swift and appropriate actions, it can be seen that the government is committed to not only providing short-term relief, but also ensuring recovery.long-term support for disaster-affected areas.
President Prabowo’s presence at these disaster sites is not only symbolic, but also proof that the state is present during the most difficult times. The support provided, both from the central and regional governments, is a tangible manifestation of solidarity and commitment to rebuilding the lives of communities devastated by the disaster. Over time, with hard work and togetherness, it is hoped that Padang, Aceh, and Medan will recover and resume their lives stronger.
)*Social Observer
