APPSI distributes Rp150 million in aid for Flores earthquake victims

Kupang, NTT (ANTARA) - The Association of Indonesian Provincial Governments (APPSI) has distributed humanitarian aid worth Rp150 million through the East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) provincial government for residents affected by the earthquake on Flores Island.

APPSI Executive Director Ismiati said in Kupang on Wednesday that the assistance reflects the concern of all provincial governments within APPSI for the people of NTT who are facing a disaster.

“We represent the APPSI Chairman to deliver assistance in the form of ready-to-eat meals, instant noodles, bread, pillows, blankets, sarongs, mats, mineral water and other necessities. The total value is around Rp150 million and it was transported using two lorries,” she said.

According to her, the assistance should not be viewed solely in terms of its material value, but as a demonstration of solidarity and concern from provincial governments across Indonesia towards the people of NTT, particularly residents in the Flores region affected by the earthquake.

“We are channelling it through the provincial government because the NTT provincial administration knows which districts need help and what assistance is most needed. We hope the distribution can proceed smoothly,” she said.

She also commended the NTT provincial government’s rapid response in handling the disaster as well as the coordination carried out with district and city governments, the Indonesian National Armed Forces and National Police, and various other relevant parties.

The APPSI Cares movement is part of the spirit of mutual cooperation among regional governments in supporting the acceleration of earthquake disaster response in Flores while ensuring that the basic needs of affected communities can be met during the emergency response period.