Government Ensures Adequate Aid for Mount Lewotobi Eruption Victims in East Nusa Tenggara
Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf has confirmed that there are enough supplies for the victims of the Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki eruption in East Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, for the next two weeks. He noted that assistance is arriving from various sources, in addition to government aid.
During a press conference on November 20, 2024, he stated that his ministry and the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) would closely monitor the availability of essential items. If supplies decrease, the central government will send more.
Yusuf emphasized that social aid centers in East Nusa Tenggara and nearby areas will function efficiently to support victims. He indicated that based on BNPB’s past experience, supplies might start to diminish next month, and additional materials will be dispatched then.
What measures is the Indonesian government implementing to ensure long-term recovery for communities affected by the Mount Lewotobi eruption?
Interview with Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf on Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki Eruption Relief Efforts
Date: November 21, 2024
Interviewer: [Interviewer Name]
Location: Jakarta, Indonesia
Interviewer: Minister Yusuf, thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. Can you provide an update on the assistance being provided to the victims of the Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki eruption?
Saifullah Yusuf: Thank you for having me. I can confirm that we have sufficient supplies for the victims for the next two weeks. Our ministry, in collaboration with the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB), is overseeing the distribution of essential items to ensure that all needs are met.
Interviewer: You mentioned that assistance is arriving from various sources. Can you elaborate on this?
Saifullah Yusuf: Certainly. We are receiving aid both from the central government and from local organizations, NGOs, and even private individuals. This collaborative effort greatly enhances our ability to support the evacuees during this challenging time.
Interviewer: The BNPB has indicated that supplies may start to diminish next month. How does the government plan to address this potential shortage?
Saifullah Yusuf: We are closely monitoring the situation. Should we observe any decline in the supplies, we will promptly send additional resources from the central government. Our priority is to ensure the victims have everything they need to cope in the coming weeks.
Interviewer: What support systems are in place for families displaced by the eruption?
Saifullah Yusuf: We have established social aid centers throughout East Nusa Tenggara and adjacent areas that are operational and ready to assist. Additionally, the government will provide financial aid of Rp500,000 per month for six months to families while they await permanent housing solutions. These measures aim to offer both immediate and longer-term support.
Interviewer: Can you tell us about the compensation for the families of the deceased and injured victims?
Saifullah Yusuf: Yes, the families of the nine victims who tragically lost their lives will receive Rp15 million each, while over 60 injured victims will be granted Rp5 million for their medical needs. We believe it is crucial to provide financial support to those affected as they navigate through this difficult period.
Interviewer: What is the current situation with the evacuees? Are they starting to return home?
Saifullah Yusuf: Yes, as volcanic activity has subsided, we have seen a decrease in the number of evacuees from 12,761 to 12,673. Some have opted to return to stay with relatives, but we remain vigilant in ensuring that all remain safe and have access to necessary resources.
Interviewer: Thank you, Minister Yusuf, for this important update. Your efforts and those of your ministry are vital during this challenging time for the affected communities.
Saifullah Yusuf: Thank you for your coverage. We appreciate the support of all who are helping us assist the victims of this disaster. Together, we will rebuild and recover.
According to BNPB data, the number of evacuees in seven centers has decreased from 12,761 to 12,673. Some evacuees have returned to stay with relatives, as the volcanic activity has subsided.
The government plans to provide families with financial aid of Rp500,000 (approximately US$31.43) for six months while they wait for permanent housing. Additionally, the families of the nine deceased victims will receive Rp15 million (around US$942.97). More than 60 injured victims will also receive Rp5 million (around US$314.22) in aid.