Cabinet Secretary Confirms National-Scale Disaster Response in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra from Day One

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya delivers a press statement at the Natural Disaster Response Integrated Command Post, Halim Perdanakusuma Air Force Base, Jakarta, Friday (12/19). (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat)

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya said that disaster response efforts in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra provinces have been conducted on a national scale from the very beginning.

He made this statement in response to various opinions still questioning the national disaster status.

“From the first day, on the 26th (November-ed.), the Central Government has implemented national-scale response measures in these three provinces, with direct national mobilization,” said Teddy during the press briefing at the Natural Disaster Response Integrated Command Post, Halim Perdanakusuma Air Force Base, Jakarta, on Friday (12/19).

He reported that more than 50,000 combined personnel from the Indonesian National Defense Forces (TNI), the Indonesian National Police (Polri), the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas), and volunteers have been deployed to the affected areas. He also dismissed the notion that central government budget support cannot be disbursed without a national disaster declaration.

“The President has stated from the beginning that all of these measures will be funded by the central budget, amounting to Rp60 trillion, which has been disbursed in phases to rebuild temporary shelters, permanent housing, and all facilities,” he explained.

In addition, the central government has provided direct assistance to affected regional heads. “All 52 regents and mayors received immediate cash assistance on that day. If there are any additional needs, they just need to report them, and the central government will provide,” he added.

Regarding infrastructure and equipment, Teddy emphasized that the Central Government has mobilized massive support. Over 100 ships, aircraft, and helicopters have been deployed to the affected regions, including heavy machinery from various parts of Indonesia.

“Heavy equipment from Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing and other sources, totaling around 1,000 units, has been transported from across Indonesia to the disaster areas,” he said.

He also acknowledged that field operations are not yet fully optimal. He urged all parties to collaborate and report directly to officials if there were any areas still requiring assistance.

“Has everyone received logistics? Are all measures perfect? Of course not yet. Therefore, let us work together, support each other,” Teddy urged.

He affirmed that all elements of the nation have worked tirelessly since day one to accelerate recovery in the affected areas. He called on everyone to maintain unity and spread positive energy.

“If the intention is to help, let’s do it together. Comfort the residents, foster optimism, bring laughter, create smiles, and build confidence. Once again, let’s help each other, protect one another, support one another, and spread positive energy,” he remarked.

The Government reaffirms that from the first day, the state has been fully present. The state stands with the people on a national scale amid this major trial. (BPMI) (EST/LW)