Sikka, NTT (ANTARA) – Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka expressed empathy for those affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), saying the government would prioritize safety and fulfillment of people’s needs during emergency response.
“I also apologize if there are still shortcomings on the ground. Public safety is important. Therefore, all emergency response measures must prioritize safety and the fulfillment of people’s urgent needs,” he said during a dialogue with residents at the evacuation post at Gelora Samador Stadium, Sikka District, NTT, on Thursday.
During the visit, Gibran spoke directly with residents to learn about their conditions and urgent needs. He also expressed his deepest condolences to those who had lost family members in the disaster.
He stressed that he had instructed both central and regional governments to ensure aid reaches all affected communities, especially for basic needs ranging from food, clean water, toilets, and medicine to healthcare services and other urgent needs, including for those in hard-to-access areas such as mountainous settlements.
“This is the state’s responsibility. I also ask that special attention be given to pregnant and breastfeeding women, the elderly, people with disabilities, and children. They must be registered, monitored, and receive assistance according to their needs,” he emphasized.
He assured residents that the government would remain by their side throughout the disaster response.
Following President Prabowo Subianto’s directives, the government will continue its efforts to ensure that emergency response and post-disaster recovery are carried out swiftly, effectively, and sustainably.
“The people of NTT are not alone. The state is present and will continue to be with the community,” Gibran said.
On the occasion, he advised the evacuees not to return to their damaged homes for the time being, given the high potential for aftershocks.
He also assured that residents’ homes, schools, and various affected public facilities would be repaired immediately.
In addition, Gibran offered prayers for all NTT residents affected by the disaster, particularly those who lost loved ones, saw their homes damaged, or continued to face hardship in the aftermath.
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Translator: Prisca Triferna, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Bayu Prasetyo
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