Task Force Utilises Driftwood for Sumatran Rehabilitation
The Acceleration Task Force for Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (Satgas PRR) in Sumatra is utilising driftwood as part of its rehabilitation and reconstruction strategy across disaster-affected areas in the provinces of Aceh, North Sumatra (Sumut), and West Sumatra (Sumbar).
Muhammad Tito Karnavian, Chair of the Satgas PRR, stated that the use of driftwood represents a strategic approach to accelerate the reconstruction of affected regions whilst ensuring that available materials on the ground are optimally utilised. “In Aceh, there is an enormous amount. It’s like an ocean. An ocean of what? Wood. So if you want to use it as firewood, it’s easy,” Tito remarked during a meeting with the Minister of Housing and Settlement Areas Maruarar Sirait on Wednesday, 25 February.
According to Satgas PRR data as of 28 February, driftwood utilisation has commenced across several affected areas. In Aceh Province, North Aceh District recorded 2,112.11 cubic metres of timber used for temporary housing construction. In Aceh Tamiang District, 572.4 cubic metres of timber awaits local government policy decisions regarding its designated use.
In South Tapanuli District, North Sumatra, 329.24 cubic metres of timber has been utilised for temporary housing, social facilities, and public infrastructure. In Central Tapanuli District, 93.39 cubic metres of timber has been used to support the recovery of residents’ homes.
Meanwhile, in West Sumatra, Padang City recorded 1,996.58 cubic metres of driftwood that has been handed over to the local government for utilisation according to rehabilitation and reconstruction needs.
This approach aligns with the Ministry of Forestry Decree No. 191 of 2026, which regulates the use of driftwood resulting from disasters as a material resource to support emergency response, rehabilitation, and reconstruction. This policy provides legal certainty in managing timber carried by flood currents to ensure it is used effectively and in a coordinated manner.
According to Tito, optimising driftwood not only accelerates the provision of housing and supporting facilities but also forms part of efforts to improve the cleanliness, safety, and organisation of affected areas. With clear regulatory support and coordination across ministries and local governments, the rehabilitation and reconstruction process in Sumatra is expected to proceed effectively and reach its intended targets.