“When we visited West Sumatra on Monday, we saw that specific needs of children and women have started to be fulfilled,” Fauzi said, adding the ministry will continue efforts until all needs are met.
She noted the government acted quickly to provide aid, prioritizing women and children in disaster zones, including West Sumatra, Aceh, and North Sumatra.
Assistance has included feminine hygiene supplies such as sanitary pads and underwear, as well as food distributed specifically for children.
Fauzi said trauma recovery programs are also underway, with multiple agencies assisting women and children affected by the disasters.
“Collaboration extends beyond our ministry. The military, police, local authorities, and the Social Ministry all participate in trauma healing programs,” she said.
Related news: BMKG warns of extreme weather in North Sumatra, Dec 8-15
Flash floods and landslides struck Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra in late November. Preliminary data from the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) as of December 7 shows 921 deaths and 392 people still missing.
On December 3, Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno said President Prabowo ordered that disaster impacts in the three provinces be handled as a national priority.
On December 7, the President issued seven directives in a limited meeting on disaster response in Aceh, emphasizing speed, accuracy, and consistency in ensuring safety and recovery of affected residents.
Fauzi stressed that the ministry continues to monitor conditions on the ground, coordinating with other government bodies to ensure rapid delivery of aid and psychological support to women and children.
She said the ministry is committed to adjusting programs as needed, ensuring all children and women affected by floods and landslides receive adequate care, shelter, and essential supplies in the coming weeks.
Related news: RI Govt mobilizes emergency kitchens for isolated Aceh Tamiang
Translator: Rio, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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