Authorities Across Indonesia Mobilize Aid for Flood Victims
Local governments and organizations as part of wider community efforts provide food, essentials, and support to residents affected by recent floods.
Recent devastating floods have precipitated swift responses from both government agencies and non-profit organizations throughout Indonesia, particularly focusing on regions severely impacted by the weather calamities. The aid distribution has included food, hygiene essentials, and other urgent supplies aimed at helping communities recover from the recent disaster.
On December 22, 2024, the Jakarta Provincial Government confirmed the provision of social assistance to residents affected by flooding, particularly targeting the areas of Pluit and Ancol. According to Premi Lasari, head of the Jakarta Social Services, around 20,750 ready-to-eat meals were distributed daily starting from December 13 to December 20 for residents of Pluit. Concurrently, 4,250 ready meals were allocated for the Ancol district from December 15 to December 19.
“This assistance is provided to meet the basic needs of residents who have been unable to engage in their daily activities,” Premi stated. “The government is here to alleviate residents’ burdens and support their recovery,” she added, emphasizing the effort is part of Jakarta's continued commitment to disaster response.
Besides immediate food distribution, the authorities launched community kitchens starting December 18 to sustain food supply continuity. The local government urged residents, especially those living along the coast, to remain vigilant due to the potential for follow-up flooding.
Further away, the Coordination Board of Nahdlatul Ulama, through the PB LBINU and PB NUCARE LAZISNU initiatives, extended humanitarian assistance to flood and landslide victims in Sukabumi, West Java. On December 21, 2024, pilgrimage leader Gus Samsul highlighted the importance of solidarity among communities affected by these disasters.
“We hope this grocery assistance will relieve the burdens of the disaster victims,” he noted as he facilitated aid through the NU Peduli disaster response post operational at Sukabumi. With significant damages reported, many were forced to evacuate their homes. The local NU leadership expressed their unwavering commitment to assist communities during these trying times.
“We will always be present to help our community, especially during emergencies like this,” said Margono, head of the PCNU Sukabumi branch, reaffirming NU's role during moments of need.
Meanwhile, Polri’s NTB Regional Police Chief, Irjen Pol Hadi Gunawan, showcased the police's effort through direct community support at Lombok Utara on December 21, 2024. The distribution of assistance included provisions for elderly residents and low-income families, which was received positively by the community.
“This aid is one of our clear missions as the police to make positive impacts,” remarked Hadi Gunawan. His comments reflect the overarching goal of promoting community solidarity, especially as families face economic challenges during this festive season.
On the governmental front, the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has also been proactive. During a coordination meeting on December 20, 2024, BNPB’s Chief Lieutenant General Suharyanto confirmed the provision of assistance and equipment to local governments across Central Java and Yogyakarta. This included ready-to-use cash assistance and logistical supplies aimed at improving readiness for potential disasters.
“We are giving financial support and necessary logistical tools to handle emergencies effectively, especially with the forecast of severe weather on the rise,” Suharyanto emphasized. The quick response of local authorities, he argued, is expected to significantly bolster disaster management capabilities throughout the region.
Central Java has declared disaster emergency status across all 33 of its municipalities to adequately prepare for potential man-made and natural disasters anticipated during the holiday season. The Pj Governor of Central Java, Nana Sudjana, reminded residents of the looming threats posed by extreme weather.
“With the warnings from the Meteorological, Climatological, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG), we expect to face more risks of floods and landslides, hence why it is imperative to stay alert,” Nana urged during the meeting.
Collectively, the quick mobilization of aid and support from various sectors highlights not only the effective response mechanisms but also the compassion and resilience found within Indonesian society. With concerted efforts to address immediate needs, organizations and agencies are forming strong foundations for artful recovery processes, standing as testimonies to the essence of community togetherness.
