Government Accelerates Post-Disaster Recovery in Sumatra
The government has reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating post-disaster handling in Sumatra through strengthened cross-ministry coordination and with local governments.
BNPB Head Suharyanto stated that the rehabilitation and reconstruction process in several affected areas, such as Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra, is proceeding according to plan. He explained that the current primary focus includes building temporary and permanent housing, repairing basic infrastructure, and restoring public services such as education, health, and community economy.
In addition, BNPB continues to ensure optimal distribution of logistical aid, field operational support, disbursement of housing allowance funds, and technical assistance to local governments. Synergy with various ministries and agencies is cited as a key factor in speeding up recovery.
“During the rehabilitation and reconstruction phase, BNPB together with the Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas (Kementerian PKP) will build 36,000 permanent homes for disaster victims in Aceh Province, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra,” said Suharyanto, quoted on Thursday (26/3).
“In the process, affected communities will be given various options; if the community wants better and centralised housing, they can register with the district/city government, and then the district/city government will channel it; meanwhile, if the community wants to stay in their village and own safe land free from disasters, it will be built by BNPB, and if they want to build their own house, that’s also allowed; we will continue to assist and provide technical guidance so that the community is also safe,” he added.
Meanwhile, Interior Minister Tito Karnavian emphasised the importance of the active role of local governments in ensuring all rehabilitation and reconstruction programmes run according to the Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Plan (R3P) document. He stated that the document serves as the main reference in implementing post-disaster reconstruction.
“Close collaboration between the central and local governments is key to accelerating recovery and overcoming various field challenges,” Tito said.
On the other hand, Presidential Chief of Staff Muhammad Qodari conveyed that President Prabowo Subianto is giving full attention to efforts to accelerate post-disaster handling in Sumatra. The government, he said, ensures all processes run transparently, accountably, and on target.
“The government also reaffirms that it will continue to be present to assist affected communities until the recovery process is complete,” Qodari said.
Recovery efforts are expected not only to restore conditions but also to create a safer and more resilient environment against potential future disasters.