He said the president has been closely monitoring developments through reports from the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) on conditions in Bitung City, Ternate City, and Batang Dua Island, among others.
When contacted from Jakarta, Wijaya added that the president quickly responded by mobilizing emergency response teams involving the BNPB, the military, the police, and local governments to assess the situation and carry out evacuations.
He highlighted that through BNPB Chief Suharyanto, the head of state had urged all personnel in the field to move swiftly and prioritize the safety of residents.
The BNPB chief, he continued, has also called on people to avoid returning to quake-hit areas and buildings until the situation is declared safe.
“Today, the BNPB chief will arrive in North Sulawesi, while other teams are scheduled to visit North Maluku,” Wijaya added.
He assured the public that the central government had promptly established intensive coordination with local authorities, including North Maluku Governor Sherly Tjoanda and North Sulawesi Governor Yulius Selvanus Komaling, to enable coordinated responses.
The government will continue monitoring field conditions while preparing further measures to support emergency handling and accelerate post-disaster recovery, he added.
Indonesia recorded the tectonic earthquake at a depth of 33 kilometers, about 129 kilometers southeast off the coast of Bitung, North Sulawesi. Tremors were felt across several districts and cities, including Manado, where one fatality was reported.
The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) had issued a tsunami warning, which has since been lifted after only minor waves were detected. The agency also reported at least 29 aftershocks, ranging in magnitude from 3.1 to 5.5.
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Translator: Maria C, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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