Speaking in Jakarta on Tuesday, he informed that the Social Affairs Ministry intends to mobilize its disaster preparedness cadets (Tagana) to prepare and distribute aid from "social barns," in collaboration with local governments.
"The assistance items will include medicines, ready-to-eat meals, and other types of necessities that we typically provide. The Ministry of Social Affairs will surely distribute the aid soon," he told the media.
He said that the ministry, along with local authorities, will try to identify feasible locations for refugee shelters.
Yusuf then informed that his office will also disburse Rp15 million (about US$912) as compensation for each deceased victim, while the injured could receive Rp5 million each.
Reports indicate that the earthquake has claimed one life in North Tapanuli, he informed.
Additionally, he said that the Ministry of Social Affairs is responsible for conducting social rehabilitation services. Meanwhile, the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) will handle the reconstruction of affected facilities and infrastructure.
The minister made these statements in relation to the 5.5-magnitude quake that jolted North Tapanuli at 5:22 a.m. local time on Tuesday. It was followed by another quake of similar magnitude in Mandailing Natal one minute later.
He also drew attention to the tidal floodwaters that have been affecting residents of Merauke district, South Papua province, since March 10, 2025.
The Social Affairs Ministry, he said, has provided packages of staple goods, which contain items such as premium-grade rice, instant noodles, cooking oil, biscuits, sweet soy sauce, and chili sauce, to the flood victims.
He then appealed to the public to remain vigilant and follow weather information provided by the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) to improve their chances of survival during natural disasters.
"Yes, the government will always do its utmost to help, but we want the public to build awareness and avoid dangers," he said.
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Related news: BMKG dispatches quick action team to mitigate North Tapanuli quake
Translator: Mecca Yumna, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Arie Novarina
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