Gibran Apologises for Shortcomings in NTT Earthquake Response
Vice President Gibran Rakabuming has apologised to the public over shortcomings in the handling of the earthquake disaster in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT).
The apology was conveyed by Gibran while meeting residents affected by the earthquake in Sikka Regency. Accompanied by Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno, Head of the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) Suharyanto, and NTT Governor Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena, Gibran directly inspected the evacuation post at Gelora Samador Stadium in Maumere on Thursday (20/8).
At the evacuation post, Gibran greeted and spoke directly with residents, asking about their condition and urgent needs. He also expressed his deepest condolences to all those who lost family members in the disaster.
“I also apologise profusely if there are still many shortcomings on the ground. Public safety is the top priority. Therefore, all emergency response measures must prioritise safety and meeting the urgent needs of the community,” Gibran said in a written statement.
Gibran said he has instructed central and regional government officials to ensure that aid reaches all affected communities.
He stressed that basic needs, from food, clean water, toilets, medicines, to health services and other urgent necessities, must truly be delivered, including to communities in hard-to-reach areas such as settlements in the mountains.
“This is the responsibility of the state. I also ask that special attention be given to pregnant and breastfeeding women, the elderly, people with disabilities, and children. They must be registered, monitored, and receive assistance according to their needs,” he said.
He said the public will not be left to face the impact of the disaster alone. As directed by President Prabowo Subianto, the government will be present and ensure that emergency response and post-disaster recovery are carried out quickly, accurately, and sustainably.
“The government will make every effort to handle the emergency response period while preparing for post-disaster recovery. The people of NTT are not alone. The state is present and will continue to stand with the community,” he said.
He also advised evacuees not to return to their damaged homes for the time being, given that the potential for aftershocks remains high. He also assured that damaged homes, schools, and various public facilities will be repaired soon.
“Ladies and gentlemen, please stay here for now. There are aftershocks. We will make sure that damaged houses, schools, and other places will be repaired later,” he said.
The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reported that the death toll from the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) has risen to 75. This data is the latest update from BNPB as of Thursday (20/8) at 16.00 WIB.