Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) instructed the military and police to help residents to clear debris from houses damaged by the earthquake that hit in November in Cianjur District, West Java.

The president delivered his instruction directly to III/Siliwangi Regional Military Commander Major General Kunto Arief Wibowo and West Java Police Chief Inspector General Suntana at an earthquake refugee shelter in Cibulakan Village, Cugenang Sub-district, Cianjur, Thursday.

"I instruct the military and the police to be mobilized to clear (debris in Cugenang). Officers must encourage residents by helping clear the debris, and I expect the area clear from the debris, and house reconstructions could start next week," Jokowi stated.

"We are ready to execute (your instruction), Mr President," the military commander and the police chief responded to the president's instruction.

While distributing assistance for the reconstruction of damaged houses to residents earlier in Karang Tengah Sub-district, the president encouraged residents to start clearing debris from their damaged homes.

He affirmed that residents could seek assistance from military or police officers if the need arises.

"Let us start by clearing the debris from our own homes, and officers from the military and the police will assist in the clearing and reconstruction processes. The military and police officers will be ready whenever needed," Jokowi stated.

Moreover, he affirmed that the government will provide financial assistance to residents for which the amount had been increased following earlier consultation with the finance minister.

"Residents whose houses suffer severe damages will receive Rp60 million (US$3,840), while (houses with) medium damages are eligible for Rp30 million (US$1,920), and houses with minor damage would receive Rp 15 million (US$960)," the president expounded.

Related news: Ministry's final say on house damage levels in Cianjur: President
Related news: BNPB provides stimulus funds to 8,341 families in Cianjur
Related news: BNPB aims to complete Cianjur victims' relocation by June 2023


Translator: Desca Lidya N, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2022