President Prabowo Subianto Ensures Controlled Disaster Recovery

President Prabowo Subianto delivers press statement at the Soewondo Airforce Base, Medan, North Sumatra province, Saturday (12/13). (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat/Muchlis Jr)

President Prabowo Subianto, Saturday (12/13), ensured that disaster response and relief efforts in many affected regions are under control.

“Yes, the situation is under control. I keep observing it,” President Prabowo said during his visit to flood-affected regions in Aceh and North Sumatra provinces, at the Soewondo Airforce Base, Medan, North Sumatra province.

He added that the Government is monitoring the situation on the ground, particularly in temporary shelters and housing for displaced residents, and ensured that their basic needs are met.

“There are indeed some delays here and there due to geographical challenges. Nevertheless, I have checked situation of displaced residents at shelters and they are in good condition, received good service and adequate food,” he said.

During his working visit, the Head of State inspected several isolated areas including Takengon and Bener Meriah. According to him, strenuous efforts to connect isolated areas are being made by all personnel on the ground.

“In the most isolated areas, such as Takengon, we are continuing to work hard to restore access to road. In Bener Meriah as well, I believe the bridge is already functioning,” he said adding that routes to Aceh Tamiang have now been reconnected, allowing the distribution of aid to proceed more smoothly.

According to him, the restoration of access is the result of the hard work of all personnel deployed on the ground and he thanked them for their hard work.

On the other hand, President Prabowo admitted that issues still prevail regarding the restoration of electricity network. In addition to natural condition and difficult terrain, ongoing flooding in several areas has hampered the installation of power lines.

In this regard, he expressed hope that the issue can be resolved within a week.

On that occasion, President Prabowo called on all sides to remain realistic in approaching the recovery process. He also expressed appreciation for the resilience of communities in disaster-affected areas and assured that the Government has prepared a number of follow-up measures.

“I believe the people remain resilient and patient. I was received very warmly,” the President said. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (RAS/MUR)