New Spirit and Life Emerging from Behind Huntara Doors

Temporary housing units (huntara) constructed by the Task Force for Accelerating Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (Satgas PRR) following the Sumatra disaster serve not only as shelter for survivors but also as spaces to reorganise lives disrupted by the calamity. In the huntara complex near the Pidie Jaya Regency Office in Aceh, the pulse of recovery is evident in the simple daily activities of the survivors. One of them, Reni (47), a survivor of the hydro-meteorological disaster, is gradually rebuilding her family’s economy through a small food business in the huntara environment. The flood that struck at the time buried Reni’s house in mud. She and her family had to leave their home and start life anew. However, amid the limitations, Reni chose to rise again. Every day, she prepares various snacks such as spring rolls, fried tofu, timpan, and fried meatballs from a simple kitchen in the huntara area. From this small business, she tries to meet her family’s needs while waiting for the full recovery process to proceed. With an initial capital of Rp200,000 borrowed from a friend and kitchen equipment obtained from Satgas PRR aid, Reni started her business gradually. Now, in front of the row of huntara where she lives, a small stall stands that is bustling with visitors from the surrounding community every day. Her two daughters also help tend the wares when their mother is cooking. For Reni, the existence of the huntara provides a safe space for her family to rebuild their lives after losing their home due to the disaster. “Alhamdulillah, now I can sell again. The proceeds aren’t much to save yet, but it’s enough for daily meals and the children’s treats,” said Reni when met on Tuesday (5/5/2026). A similar spirit is felt by Siti Asyiah, a resident of Sekumur Village, Sekerak Ward, Aceh Tamiang, Aceh, who lived in an evacuation tent for five months before finally occupying the huntara. She admitted that the more decent temporary living conditions allow her family to gradually resume daily activities more comfortably. “We are very grateful for this assistance. Thank you to the government. We hope the unfinished huntara can be completed soon, and permanent housing (huntap) built quickly,” said Siti.