Behind the Doors of Huntara: Spirit and New Life

Jakarta, VIVA – Temporary housing (Huntara) built by the Task Force for Accelerating Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (Satgas PRR) in the aftermath of the Sumatra disaster is not only providing shelter for survivors but also serving as a space to reorganise lives that were halted by the calamity. In the Huntara complex at the Pidie Jaya Regency Office area in Aceh, the pulse of recovery is evident in the simple daily activities carried out by survivors. One of them is Reni (47), a survivor of the hydrometeorological disaster, who is gradually rebuilding her family’s economy through a small food business in the Huntara environment. The flood that struck at the time buried Reni’s house in mud. She and her family had to leave their home and start life anew. However, amid the limitations, Reni chose to rise again. Every day, she prepares various snacks such as spring rolls, fried tofu, timpan, and fried meatballs from a simple kitchen in the Huntara area. From this small business, she tries to meet her family’s needs while waiting for the full recovery process to proceed. With an initial capital of Rp200,000 borrowed from a friend and kitchen equipment obtained from Satgas PRR assistance, Reni started her business gradually. Now, in front of the row of Huntara where she lives, a small stall stands that is visited daily by local residents. Her two daughters also help tend the stall while their mother cooks. For Reni, the existence of Huntara provides a safe space for her family to rebuild their lives after losing their home due to the disaster. “Alhamdulillah, now I can sell again. The proceeds aren’t much to save yet, but it’s enough for daily meals and the children’s treats,” said Reni when met, quoted on Friday, 8 May 2026. A similar spirit is felt by Siti Asyiah, a resident of Sekumur Village, Sekerak Sub-district, Aceh Tamiang, Aceh, who lived in a displacement tent for five months before finally occupying Huntara. She admitted that the more decent temporary living conditions allow her family to gradually resume daily activities more comfortably. “We are very grateful for this assistance. Thank you to the government. We hope the unfinished Huntara can be completed soon, and permanent housing built quickly,” said Siti.