Prabowo Disburses Rp20 Billion Earthquake Aid for Each NTT Regency

President Prabowo Subianto has provided government assistance funds amounting to Rp20 billion for each regency and Rp40 billion for the provincial government in East Nusa Tenggara as part of efforts to handle the earthquake disaster. During a coordination meeting at the disaster management command post in Nagekeo Regency, NTT, on Wednesday (26/8/2026), the president personally confirmed that the aid had been disbursed.

“Good, thank you. Has the Rp20 billion aid for each affected regency arrived?” Prabowo asked.

At that moment, BNPB chief Suharyanto replied that the aid had been received by the relevant regional governments. He also stressed that the aid funds must not be used for any purpose other than disaster management.

“We have also conveyed to the regent that the aid must not be used for anything else except to handle the disaster, Sir. Ready,” said Suharyanto.

On the same occasion, East Nusa Tenggara Governor Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena thanked President Prabowo Subianto for the assistance provided.

“In accordance with the President’s directive, we received it yesterday, thank you. The President has provided assistance. All regencies on Flores Island received Rp20 billion, and the province received Rp40 billion. It greatly helps us to mobilise refugees,” said Melkiades.

He added that the President also provided assistance for East Flores, which has been largely affected by the eruption of Mount Lewotobi.

“Even East Flores, which was not included among those affected, was also given assistance by the President yesterday, and he expressed special thanks because he also received it due to the Lewotobi situation, Mr President. The Lewotobi eruption has been ongoing for two years, and there was special gratitude because although it was not included, it still received assistance,” he explained.

On that occasion, Emanuel urged the public to help one another, particularly shop owners, to provide assistance that could later be billed to the regional government.

“One of the things we used yesterday was a community-based instrument. At that time we said that all shops and kiosks should provide support to the community, and later the province or the government will pay,” he said.

“Because the main point is that no one should be unable to eat or drink or lack blankets or mattresses during the disaster. And we ask all shops and kiosks to help as well,” he added.