"In North Sumatra, several districts are still difficult to reach; some are still inaccessible by land, but we can visit them by air with helicopters and planes. Likewise, in Aceh," he said.
This was conveyed by the President during a visit to a flood-hit area in Padang Pariaman District, West Sumatra, on Monday.
Prabowo stated that conditions in several areas are starting to improve. In West Sumatra, for instance, he received reports that electricity supply has been restored to nearly 100 percent, while repairs to clean water networks and the construction of emergency bridges are being expedited.
The government also ensured that assistance would be provided for residents whose homes are damaged by the devastating floods.
The President asserted that all disaster handling measures are carried out by prioritizing the interests of the people.
"I pray that you all remain strong. We are all one big family. We will not let you carry this burden alone," Prabowo told the survivors.
Before visiting Padang Pariaman, President Prabowo earlier visited the flood survivors in Southeast Aceh District, Aceh, and Central Tapanuli District, North Sumatra.
He ensured that the government would speed up the construction of emergency access and reconstruct permanent bridges.
The President emphasized that the flood handling efforts in Sumatra are carried out swiftly, precisely, and thoroughly.
Floods and landslides recently hit Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra following heavy, high-intensity rainfall.
The respective governments of the three provinces have declared a disaster emergency response status, effective from November 28 to December 11 for Aceh, November 27 to December 10 for North Sumatra, and November 25 to December 8 for West Sumatra.
According to data from the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB), as of December 1 at 05:00 p.m., the death toll from floods and landslides in the three provinces of Sumatra had reached 604, while 464 people were still missing.
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Translator: Maria C, Galih P, Raka A
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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