OIC pledges Rp 12t aid for Aceh

The Jakarta Post, Jakarta

The Organization of Islamic Countries (OIC) has pledged Rp 12 trillion (US$1.22 billion) in reconstruction funds for tsunami- devastated Aceh.

"OIC has expressed interest in channeling assistance for rehabilitation and reconstruction projects in Aceh. It will amount to Rp 12 trillion," Aceh acting governor Azwar Abubakar said on Wednesday.

Earlier, the world's biggest grouping of Islamic nations promised $145 million for Aceh, to be spent largely on children orphaned by the Dec. 26 disaster.

No less than 170,000 people were killed or are still missing as a result of the catastrophe in December last year, which also hit the neighboring island of Nias.

"The funds for orphans will cover their daily needs and education requirements for 15 years," Azwar said, as quoted by Antara.

Indonesia, also an OIC member country, has the largest Muslim population in the world.

Besides from OIC, funds have also come from various others quarters worldwide, including Australia, the European Union, and many other non-governmental organizations (NGO).