East Aceh Regent Strongly Criticises Vendor Over Delayed Temporary Housing

The Regent of East Aceh, Iskandar Usman Al-Farlaky, was furious over the unfinished temporary housing (Huntara) for residents affected by flash floods in Desa Blang Senong, Dusun Pelalu, Pante Bidari Subdistrict, Aceh. He requested that the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) terminate the contract with the errant vendor. “This is not an ordinary project. It concerns the fate of people who urgently need shelter. Why has it been neglected like this? It is not yet completed properly,” said Al-Farlaky in a raised tone, as quoted by detikSumut on Sunday (29/3). Iskandar spoke with the community during his visit to the village on Saturday (29/3). He also directly questioned BNPB representatives about the unfinished Huntara. According to him, the delay is not merely a technical issue but reflects a lack of seriousness in fulfilling humanitarian responsibilities. The government stated it will not tolerate vendors who work carelessly, especially in projects directly related to the basic needs of affected communities. “If you can’t handle it, say so from the start. Take action, terminate the contract with the vendor. It cannot be this slow,” explained Al-Farlaky. The former Aceh DPR member requested that BNPB conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the implementing vendor. He hopes firm steps will be taken soon, including the possibility of contract termination if there is no significant progress in the near future. “We are not washing our hands of it. To clarify, this is a BNPB programme, including the vendor. But since it concerns our people, we will continue to monitor it until completion,” he said. “Do not involve incompetent vendors. Anyone involved must be accountable,” added the Partai Aceh politician.