During Plenary Cabinet Session here on Monday, Subianto praised the personnel's dedication, saying it reflected the government’s commitment to assisting evacuees despite the life-threatening risks involved.
"We have seen some of our personnel swept away by the currents while trying to save people. They put their lives on the line. I want (them) to be awarded properly," the president said.
He instructed the cabinet to identify personnel who contributed to the emergency response and report them to him for appropriate recognition, including possible promotions.
"Health personnel, doctors, on-site personnel who did not leave their posts, they must also be awarded," he added.
On the occasion, the president also expressed his utmost respect for personnel who are currently helping victims who are affected by flash floods and landslides across three provinces in Sumatra.
"Convey my gratitude to all personnel on site, my commendation, my respect to them. I am proud. I am now President of Indonesia, I (lead) the government, I have helpers like you, and I have personnel on-site, all of you work for the people," he said.
During the meeting, Commander of TNI General Agus Subiyanto reported that a total of 35,477 personnel had been deployed to disaster-affected areas.
Of the number, 28,319 were from army, 4,589 from navy, 2,469 from air force, and 321 are from TNI's health unit.
Four battalions were also dispatched to the areas to help construct the bailey bridges, remove debris piling up after the disaster, and building both temporary and permanent housing for the refugees.
Bailey bridges have been installed by TNI, Public Works Ministry, and the local communities at several places to ensure smooth connectivity between affected areas.
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Translator: Genta Tenri Mawangi, Mecca Yumna
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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