Indonesia's Trade Ministry Leads Relief Efforts for Sumatra Disaster Victims

Comprehensive Donation Drive

The Indonesian Ministry of Trade (Kemendag) has organized a significant relief effort for victims of recent natural disasters in Sumatra. Trade Minister Budi Santoso led the handover of substantial donations to the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) on December 1, 2025. The relief package, worth multiple truckloads, included essential supplies such as instant food, medicine, baby diapers, sanitary napkins, and blankets ¹

Collection and Distribution Process

The donations were collected through 'Kemendag Peduli', the Ministry's charitable initiative, which gathered both cash and goods from employees and stakeholders. The relief supplies were then channeled through BNPB for distribution to affected communities in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. The donation process remains open for both Ministry employees and the general public, with a dedicated bank account established for cash contributions.

Coordination with Disaster Management Authorities

BNPB Deputy Raditya Jati appreciated the Ministry's support, highlighting the importance of such contributions in disaster response efforts. The Halim Perdanakusuma Airport served as the primary transit point for the relief supplies, where they underwent verification before being dispatched to disaster zones based on regional needs assessments.

Continued Relief Efforts

The Ministry is committed to maintaining the donation channel for ongoing support. Further stages of relief distribution are being planned, with continued coordination between the Ministry, business associations, distributors, and local governments to ensure the availability of essential goods in affected areas.