Sepablock Technology Becomes Pilot for BNPB Permanent Housing in West Sumatra

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is utilising the innovative Sepablock technology produced by PT Semen Padang as a pilot model for the construction of independent permanent housing for survivors of the flash floods and landslides in West Sumatra. BNPB Principal Secretary Rustian stated that the interlocking brick material was applied to the first pilot permanent housing unit, which has been officially handed over to disaster survivors. “This completed and handed-over permanent housing is a pilot post-disaster house built using Sepablock technology,” he said. “The Padang City Government is currently proposing the construction of an additional 22 units.” Rustian explained that this technology-based pilot house was completed first to serve as a reference standard and for technical evaluation before the mass construction of other units proceeds. The pilot project, which began with a groundbreaking ceremony in late March 2026, is considered a rapid government solution for providing safe, decent, and sustainable housing. The handover of keys for these specially constructed houses was carried out simultaneously in three priority disaster-affected areas: Padang City, Pariaman City, and Padang Panjang Regency. In Padang City, the handover of one type 36 pilot unit was centred in Kampung Tanjung, Kuranji District, accompanied by Deputy Mayor Maigus Nasir. Appreciation was also expressed by Emridona, a resident of Sintuak Naras Village in North Pariaman District, Pariaman City, who received a pilot unit after her previous home was completely destroyed by floods and landslides in November 2025. “Deputy Mayor Maigus hopes that BNPB will immediately build the 22 additional units and borehole facilities for other affected residents,” Rustian said. Rustian advised the beneficiaries to occupy the pilot houses immediately, as their structural characteristics have proven to be sturdy, resistant to extreme weather, and earthquake-resistant. He affirmed that post-disaster recovery from the floods, exacerbated by the Senyar Cyclone atmospheric disturbance in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra, remains a top government priority through the synergistic use of disaster-adaptive technology.