Frustration is growing in Indonesia as the central government faces mounting criticism for its handling of the devastating floods in Sumatra. The government’s refusal to declare a national emergency and its initial blocking of international aid are drawing condemnation from regional leaders and residents alike, even as recovery efforts struggle to reach over 1 million affected people.
Aid Returns Spark Outrage
On Thursday, the Medan city administration in North Sumatra returned 30 tonnes of rice and 300 packages of essential supplies – including food, baby products, and prayer kits – donated by the United Arab Emirates. Mayor Rico Tri Putra Bayu Waas stated the decision followed consultation with the Defense Ministry and the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB), citing regulations preventing acceptance of aid from foreign governments.
This decision prompted immediate backlash. Wong Chun Sen, Speaker of the Medan Legislative Council, called the return of the aid “embarrassing” and warned of potential damage to relations with the UAE. Local resident Khairul Fuad expressed disappointment, stating, “It was rude to return aid that had already been received, especially when so many people are still in need.”
Shifting Explanations and Malaysian Assistance
Home Minister Tito Karnavian later explained that the Medan administration accepted the aid after learning it originated from the UAE Red Crescent, not the UAE government directly. The aid was then handed over to the Muhammadiyah Medical Center for distribution.
The situation mirrors a recent dispute regarding 500 tonnes of aid offered by the Aceh Community in Malaysia. Approval for this aid was initially denied, as Indonesia had not declared a national emergency – a prerequisite for accepting foreign assistance. The government eventually allowed the Malaysian aid to enter, but Minister Karnavian’s subsequent comment that the aid’s value of approximately Rp 1 billion (US$59,761) was “not significant” drew further criticism from both Indonesian and Malaysian officials, prompting an apology from Karnavian.
Ongoing Crisis and Limited Access
As of Friday, the floods and landslides triggered by Cyclone Senyar have resulted in 1,068 confirmed deaths, approximately 7,600 injuries, and damage to over 158,000 homes and 1,200 pieces of public infrastructure across North Sumatra, Aceh, and West Sumatra. At least 190 people remain missing. Three weeks after the disaster, 80 villages in Aceh and eight in North Sumatra remain isolated, with residents facing power outages, limited access to clean water, and dwindling supplies. Evacuees in Aceh have reportedly raised white flags as a sign of protest against the slow pace of aid delivery.
President Prabowo Subianto stated on Monday that he had been contacted by several foreign leaders offering assistance, but reiterated, “We are capable. Indonesia can handle this.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current situation in Sumatra?
The northern and western regions of Sumatra are experiencing severe devastation following floods and landslides caused by Cyclone Senyar. Over 1 million people are affected, with significant loss of life, injuries, and damage to infrastructure.
Why was aid from the UAE initially returned?
The Medan city administration, following guidance from the central government, returned aid from the UAE because they initially believed it was a government-to-government donation, which is not currently permitted under Indonesian regulations.
What has been the government’s response to the criticism?
Home Minister Tito Karnavian initially defended the decision, but later apologized for comments downplaying the value of aid from Malaysia. The government has since allowed both the UAE Red Crescent and Malaysian aid to be distributed.
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether the Indonesian government will reconsider its stance on accepting international assistance and expedite aid delivery to those in need.
