Sanitation aid distributed to Flores earthquake survivors
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Aid for sanitation and hygiene needs has been distributed to residents affected by the Flores earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), who continue to face limited basic facilities in several displacement locations.
The aid, consisting of baby nappies, sanitary pads, adult nappies, masks, and wet wipes, was distributed by PT Uni-Charm Indonesia Tbk (Unicharm) through two points: RSUD Manggarai and the Manggarai Police Headquarters, to be forwarded to affected residents in the Reok District.
Sanitation product needs are a critical priority amidst displacement conditions characterised by limited access to clean water and bathing, washing, and toilet (MCK) facilities, particularly for vulnerable groups such as infants, women, and the elderly.
A representative from RSUD Manggarai, Zeni, stated that the need for daily sanitation products remains an urgent requirement for residents currently in displacement camps.
According to data from the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) up to 31 August 2026, the Flores earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.7, was followed by more than 10,000 aftershocks, 35 of which had magnitudes above 5.0.
Meanwhile, data from the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) as of 14 September 2026 recorded more than 140 deaths, over 100,000 damaged houses, and more than 2,000 health facilities and schools affected by the disaster.
President Director of Unicharm, Yasutaka Nishioka, stated that the aid is an expression of care for the community still undergoing the recovery period following the disaster.
“We express our deepest empathy for the tragedy that has befallen the people of Flores, NTT. In line with the company’s sustainability commitment through our slogan ‘Ethical Living for SDGs’, we are here to alleviate the burden of the affected residents,” he said.
He expressed hope that the sanitation product aid could help meet the daily needs of the community, particularly for mothers, infants, and the elderly, during the post-disaster recovery period.