Agam, West Sumatra (ANTARA) - Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has ordered Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka to help accelerate emergency measures for residents affected by floods and landslides across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra Provinces.
"I have been instructed by Mr. President to carry out efforts aimed at expediting the recovery of disaster-hit regions and to support the distribution of logistical aid via land, sea, and air," he remarked at a refugee camp in Agam District, West Sumatra.
During a dialogue with survivors on Thursday, Gibran affirmed the central government's commitment to swiftly restoring communication services, health facilities, schools, bridges, and roads to ensure smoother distribution of food and fuel.
The vice president urged local governments, the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB), the National Police (Polri), the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), and other relevant institutions to provide refugees with adequate access to food and clean water.
He also appreciated locals for voicing their needs and input, assuring them that the government will follow up on their concerns. "Ladies and gentlemen, you are not alone. Rest assured, the government is present for the people," he said.
West Sumatra Governor Mahyeldi, who accompanied Gibran during the visit, noted that Agam is the district with the highest number of victims in the province, with the disasters damaging homes, farms, schools, and various public facilities.
He highlighted the recent visits of President Prabowo and Vice President Gibran to West Sumatra, describing their presence as a strong sign of the government's commitment to rebuilding the province.
The governor added that the government will continue ensuring adequate supplies of food, drinking water, and clothing for survivors, restore electricity and communication networks, and pursue efforts to find the missing.
Nofrendi, one of the refugees, told Gibran and Mahyeldi that his community urgently needs assistance to rebuild their homes and revive their submerged agricultural land. He also suggested that the government grant scholarships to disaster-affected students.
"I thank Mr. Vice President for his visit, especially because it is the first time a state leader has come here to our village," he said.
