Prabowo Pledges Aid to Flood-Hit Communities in Sumatra

Medan, Indonesia – Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has pledged government support for communities across Sumatra reeling from recent devastating floods, promising housing, restored electricity, and access to clean water. The president’s visit comes after a diplomatic trip to Pakistan and Russia, and signals a swift focus on domestic disaster relief.

Subianto toured affected areas including Langkat, Takengon, Bener Meriah, and Aceh Tamiang, witnessing firsthand the scale of the destruction and the urgent needs of displaced residents. The floods, triggered by unusually heavy rainfall, have left thousands homeless and disrupted essential services.

Housing for Displaced Families

Addressing residents in Medan on Saturday, Subianto stated that his administration is prioritizing the allocation of housing for those who have lost their homes. While details remain forthcoming, the commitment offers a glimmer of hope for families currently sheltering in temporary evacuation centers.

“I believe the people remain resilient and patient. I was welcomed with great kindness, and we have already begun planning the allocation of housing and other necessary resources,” Subianto said.

Restoring Power and Essential Services

A major challenge facing recovery efforts is the widespread disruption to the electricity grid. Subianto acknowledged the slow pace of restoration, attributing it to the physical damage and ongoing adverse weather conditions. According to the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), over 50,000 homes remain without power as of December 14th, 2025.

“There are definitely problems with electricity. It’s not as fast as we’d like, due to the physical conditions and the ongoing natural challenges we’re facing,” Subianto explained. He pledged to expedite repairs, despite logistical hurdles posed by flooded access roads.

“I don’t have the staff of Moses, but everyone is working hard,” he added, referencing the biblical story of parting the Red Sea, a metaphor for overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Clean Water and Infrastructure Repair

Concerns over access to clean water were also raised during Subianto’s visit. The Governor of North Sumatra, Bobby Nasution, reported critical shortages of both drinking water and water for sanitation. The president assured swift action to address the issue.

“I’ve come to see the situation firsthand, and the shortages have been reported to me. We will address them immediately,” Subianto stated at an evacuation center in Tanjung Pura.

Beyond immediate relief, Subianto emphasized the importance of long-term infrastructure repair, particularly focusing on strengthening flood defenses. He directed the Indonesian Armed Forces, the Ministry of Public Works, and the National Police to mobilize all available resources for the task.

A Commitment to Ongoing Support

Subianto concluded his remarks with a promise of continued monitoring and support for affected communities. He urged residents to remain strong and assured them that the government would not abandon them.

“I will continue to monitor the situation day by day, week by week. With all our strength, we will face this together and help everyone affected by this disaster,” he said. “You are part of us, we are your family, and we will not leave you alone.”