"The state is responsible for ensuring the protection and basic needs of citizens both in times of joy and sorrow," he remarked during a visit to a flood refugee camp in Peguyangan, Denpasar, on Friday.
He highlighted that government institutions and the private sector had moved to distribute essential goods and equipment to residents taking refuge in several shelters set up in the wake of the disaster.
Flood-affected residents in the tourism province are reported to be in need of beds, pillows, blankets, clothing, food, and hygiene supplies.
Acknowledging the people’s hardship, Pigai stressed that the government is present to provide treatment for the injured and repair infrastructure and facilities damaged by the flooding, which was triggered by heavy rainfall.
"Ladies and gentlemen, as citizens of Indonesia, you have the right to recovery and access to basic needs, and the Ministry of Social Affairs plays a central role in this matter," the minister told the refugees.
He further voiced commitment to supporting Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf in ensuring that efforts to provide basic necessities run smoothly.
Pigai visited Bali to monitor the distribution of logistics to flood-affected residents and, together with Yusuf, handed over compensation funds worth Rp15 million (around US$914) each to the families of deceased victims.
On early Wednesday, flash floods and landslides struck 123 locations across Denpasar and six districts in Bali.
The Bali Regional Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) reported that fatalities from the floods had reached 18 as of Friday morning.
“The death toll is 18, with 12 victims from Denpasar City, three from Gianyar District, two from Jembrana District, and one from Badung District,” Bali BPBD Head I Gede Agung Teja Bhusana Yadnya stated.
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Translator: Dewa K, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Primayanti
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