Foreign Minister Sugiono appreciates friendly nations' concern over NTT earthquake

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono has expressed appreciation for the attention shown by friendly nations following the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) on Saturday (15/8).

“Following the series of powerful earthquakes that occurred in Indonesia, we extend our sincere appreciation to all friends and colleagues for their messages of condolence, support, and solidarity,” Sugiono said in a post on platform X on Sunday.

He affirmed that national search, rescue, and aid distribution efforts are being carried out across all affected areas.

“In these difficult times, Indonesia is deeply grateful for the solidarity shown by friends and colleagues around the world,” Sugiono said.

Several countries, including Malaysia, Australia, Saudi Arabia, Palestine, Qatar, Türkiye, the United Arab Emirates, Russia, and the United States, have officially conveyed their deep condolences and solidarity for residents affected by the NTT earthquake.

Similar support was also expressed by Scandinavian countries, including Denmark and Sweden, through their representatives in Jakarta.

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) announced that as of Sunday afternoon, the death toll from the earthquake in NTT had reached 53 people, while 137 people were recorded as injured.

Currently, the injured are receiving treatment at nearby health facilities as well as emergency health facilities.

The disaster has forced more than 5,000 people to evacuate and caused damage to various public facilities and residential homes.