Indonesia's Comprehensive Response to Sumatra Natural Disaster

Disaster Overview

The recent floods and landslides in Sumatra have resulted in a significant humanitarian crisis, with 1,030 reported deaths and 205 people still missing as of December 16, 2025 ⁶

. The disaster has affected 52 regencies across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra, damaging 186,488 homes of varying severity ⁶

Source 6

https://nasional.kontan.co.id/news/per-selasa-1612-korban-meninggal-banjir-longsor-sumatra-menjadi-1030-jiwa

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Government Response Initiatives

Emergency Nutrition Services

The government has activated 323 nutrition centers through the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program, providing critical food assistance to affected communities ¹

. These centers have been repurposed to serve as emergency kitchens, demonstrating the government's adaptive response to the crisis.

Financial Allocation for Recovery

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa announced that the government has earmarked Rp 60 trillion in the 2026 state budget for disaster recovery efforts ⁴

. This significant allocation will be channeled through the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) to support comprehensive rehabilitation across the affected regions.

Support for Affected Industries

Fishing Community Relief

The Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has prioritized permit extensions for fishermen affected by the disaster, ensuring continuity of their livelihoods ⁵

. This measure includes expedited processing of Fishing Permit Letters (SIPI) and Fish Transporting Vessel Permit Letters (SIKPI).

Cooperative Sector Support

Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantono indicated that affected cooperatives, particularly the Red and White Village Cooperatives, may receive regulatory relief due to project delays caused by the disaster ⁷

. This support is crucial for maintaining economic stability in rural areas.

International Cooperation

The Aceh provincial government has formally requested assistance from United Nations agencies, specifically UNDP and UNICEF, leveraging their expertise in post-disaster recovery ²

. This collaboration is expected to enhance the effectiveness of relief efforts.

Infrastructure and Housing

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed officials to expedite the construction of temporary and permanent housing for disaster victims, emphasizing the use of state-owned land and concession areas ³

. This directive aims to overcome potential bureaucratic hurdles in the reconstruction process.