Gibran Acknowledges Two Bridges in Kupang Severely Damaged, Amfoang Isolated
Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has acknowledged that damage to two bridges in the Amfoang region of Kupang Regency, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), is severe. The destruction of the Termanu and Kapsali Bridges has left several areas isolated, including forcing students to cross rivers to carry out daily activities.
The moment was captured in a video that went viral on social media as Gibran personally inspected the Termanu and Kapsali Bridges in Manubelon Village, Amfoang Barat Daya District, on Friday, 22 May 2026.
“Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed residents, we have just seen two damaged bridges, and I think the damage is quite serious,” Gibran said while speaking with residents in the video, quoted by detikBali on Friday.
In the 1 minute 30 seconds video, Gibran explained that his visit to Manubelon Village was not on the original schedule. He said he was initially scheduled to depart for Rote Ndao Regency.
However, after landing in Kupang, he met students who voiced concerns about infrastructure damage in Amfoang.
“Ladies and gentlemen, as I said, I did not actually have a schedule for Amfoang today. Today my schedule was for Pulau Rote Island, but yesterday after landing in Kupang I met student friends, and they voiced aspirations regarding infrastructure in Amfoang,” Gibran said.
Gibran assessed that conditions in Manubelon village were still lamentable and isolated due to the damaged infrastructure. He pledged to coordinate with the relevant ministries to seek a solution.
“I also see that in this village, in this kampung, the situation is not good, it is isolated. I apologise wholeheartedly; after I return I will coordinate with the relevant ministries to provide the best solution for you all,” he said, receiving applause from residents.
He also highlighted the impact of the two bridges’ failure on community activities, especially schoolchildren who have to cross the river.
“What was explained earlier is the effect of the bridges’ closure; perhaps younger siblings and schoolchildren have to cross a wet river,” he concluded.