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Sport

Megan Oldman Wins Gold | Canada Big Air Champion

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Megan Oldham’s Golden Run: A Latest Era for Freestyle Skiing?

Megan Oldham’s gold medal in massive air at the 2026 Winter Olympics wasn’t just a personal triumph. it underscored a growing trend in freestyle skiing – a blend of technical prowess, mental fortitude, and a willingness to push boundaries even after setbacks. Her victory, following a bronze in slopestyle and a concussion earlier in the season, highlights the increasing demands placed on athletes in this dynamic sport.

The Rise of the All-Rounder

Oldham’s success in both slopestyle and big air demonstrates a shift towards athletes excelling in multiple disciplines. Historically, skiers often specialized. Now, a broader skillset is becoming increasingly valuable. This is driven by the evolving Olympic format and the desire for athletes to maximize their medal potential. Oldham’s background as a gymnast and figure skater likely contributed to her versatility.

Overcoming Adversity: The Mental Game in Freestyle

Oldham’s journey to gold was far from smooth. A concussion in November left her with memory loss, and a crash during the slopestyle competition tested her resilience. Her ability to rebound from these challenges speaks to the growing importance of mental strength in freestyle skiing. Coaches are increasingly incorporating sports psychology into training regimens to help athletes manage pressure, overcome fear, and maintain focus.

“Honestly, this has been an Olympics that has totally surpassed my dreams,” Oldham said, emphasizing the mental aspect of achieving her goals.

Innovation and Risk: Pushing the Limits of Big Air

The big air competition itself is becoming increasingly daring. Oldham’s decision to attempt a switch double 1440 mute grab, even after securing the gold, exemplifies this trend. Athletes are constantly striving to invent and land more complex tricks, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. This pursuit of innovation, however, comes with inherent risks, as evidenced by the injuries to Mathilde Gremaud and Anouk Andraska during training.

The structure of the big air jump, spanning 170 metres, is designed to facilitate these ambitious maneuvers, but as well presents a significant challenge to athlete safety.

The International Landscape: Canada, China, and Italy on the Podium

The medal standings in women’s big air – Canada (gold), China (silver), and Italy (bronze) – reflect the growing global competitiveness of freestyle skiing. China’s Eileen Gu continues to be a dominant force, securing her fifth Olympic medal. Italy’s Flora Tabanelli’s podium finish, despite a torn ACL, is a testament to dedication and innovative rehabilitation techniques. This diversification of success suggests a broader investment in the sport across different nations.

The Impact of Course Conditions

The 75-minute weather delay and subsequent snowfall at Livigno Snow Park highlighted the significant impact of course conditions on performance. Coaches and athletes must adapt quickly to changing environments, making strategic decisions about trick selection and run order. J.F. Cusson’s decision to alter Oldham’s planned opening run due to variable conditions proved crucial to her success.

Freestyle Skiing FAQs

What is big air skiing?

Big air skiing involves skiers performing tricks off a large jump, judged on difficulty, execution, amplitude, and landing.

What is slopestyle skiing?

Slopestyle skiing involves navigating a course with various rails, jumps, and other obstacles, judged on creativity, difficulty, and execution.

How critical is mental strength in freestyle skiing?

Extremely important. Athletes face significant physical and mental challenges, and the ability to manage pressure and overcome setbacks is crucial for success.

What are the risks associated with freestyle skiing?

Freestyle skiing carries inherent risks of injury, including concussions, fractures, and ligament tears. Athletes take precautions, but the sport demands a high degree of courage and risk tolerance.

Pro Tip: Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet are crucial for optimal performance and recovery in freestyle skiing.

Want to learn more about the latest developments in freestyle skiing? Visit the FIS Freestyle Skiing website for news, results, and athlete profiles.

Share your thoughts on Megan Oldham’s incredible performance in the comments below! What does this victory mean for the future of freestyle skiing?

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Central Tapanuli Hit by Flash Floods and Landslides Again After November Disaster

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Central Tapanuli Regency, North Sumatra, is once again grappling with the aftermath of flash floods and landslides that struck on Monday. The disaster has revived traumatic memories of devastating floods and landslides that impacted parts of Sumatra less than three months ago.

Impact and Disruption

Hours of intense rainfall caused rivers to overflow, sending floodwaters mixed with logs into residential areas of Lopian subdistrict in Badiri district and parts of Tukka district. Water levels reached chest height in some areas, forcing residents to evacuate to higher ground. Hundreds of homes were inundated.

The flooding has severely disrupted transportation. The Sibolga–Padang Sidempuan national road, a key transport link in western North Sumatra, is paralyzed, and a sedan was swept away by the current. Access roads in Lopian are completely cut off. Landslides along the Tarutung–Sibolga route have also severed road access for travelers.

Did You Know? Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo stated that all previously isolated districts across Sumatra had their access restored within 50 days of the November floods and landslides.

Authorities have warned that continued rainfall could trigger further slope failures and river overflows. Although local government officials have not yet issued an official damage assessment, search-and-rescue teams and emergency workers are on the ground providing assistance.

Recent History and Response

The latest flooding follows a major disaster in November that killed more than 1,200 people across North Sumatra, West Sumatra, and Aceh, with at least 140 people still reported missing.

In response to the November disaster, the Ministry of Public Works restored access to all previously isolated districts. Sovereign wealth fund Danantara has launched a temporary housing program, aiming to build 15,000 temporary homes across Aceh, West Sumatra, and North Sumatra, including approximately 2,000 units in South and Central Tapanuli.

Expert Insight: Recurring disasters like these highlight the vulnerability of communities to extreme weather events and the importance of proactive disaster preparedness and resilient infrastructure. The rapid response to restore access after the November floods, coupled with the new housing initiative, suggests a growing focus on mitigating the impact of such events.

Looking Ahead

If rainfall continues, further slope failures and river overflows are possible. It is likely that damage assessments will be conducted in the coming days to determine the full extent of the impact. Continued evacuation efforts and assistance for affected residents are also anticipated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What areas were affected by the recent flooding?

The flooding impacted Lopian subdistrict of Badiri district and parts of Tukka district in Central Tapanuli Regency, North Sumatra.

How does this event relate to past disasters in the region?

This flooding occurred less than three months after widespread floods and landslides devastated parts of Sumatra in November, resulting in over 1,200 deaths and at least 140 people still missing.

What is being done to help those affected?

Search-and-rescue teams and emergency workers have been deployed to evacuate residents and provide assistance. Danantara is also building temporary homes in the region.

How will communities in Central Tapanuli rebuild and prepare for future extreme weather events?

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Kathryn Andrews lost two homes to L.A. fires, then raised $1.74 million for artists

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

For artist Kathryn Andrews, loss has become a recurring reality. In January 2025, she fled a fire in the Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles with only her passport and two dogs, Cooper and Coco. It wasn’t the first time she’d lost everything to wildfire; five years prior, her home in Juniper Hills was destroyed in the Bobcat fire.

A Response to Loss

Rather than succumb to despair, Andrews channeled her experience into action. Just a month after the Palisades fire, she co-founded Grief & Hope, a mutual aid fund designed to quickly provide direct support to artists and cultural workers displaced by the disaster. The volunteer-run organization raised $1.74 million, distributing aid to nearly 300 people across Los Angeles County.

Did You Know? Grief & Hope distinguished itself from traditional disaster relief by offering aid without requiring applicants to provide tax returns or demonstrate financial need, focusing instead on proximity to the fires and connection to the arts.

Andrews explained that a more streamlined approach was necessary. “We weren’t qualified to determine someone else’s need,” she said. “The scale of loss is just too large, and it shows up in ways you can’t always quantify.” While acknowledging the $1.74 million raised was modest compared to the overall cost of rebuilding lives, the fund offered a different model for support.

From Personal Tragedy to Broader Action

The repeated experience of loss has profoundly shaped Andrews’ work. She has expanded her focus beyond her art practice to include community organizing and mental health care. Andrews is now a practicing therapist, having graduated from Antioch University in 2023, and founded the Judith Center in 2024. The Judith Center hosts exhibitions, conversations, and events examining sexism across various sectors, including the arts.

Expert Insight: Andrews’ response to repeated loss highlights a growing trend of individuals taking agency in the face of systemic failures. By creating alternative support networks like Grief & Hope, she demonstrates the power of community-led initiatives to address gaps in traditional disaster relief and broader societal issues.

Her artistic work continues to explore themes of perception and power, with recent pieces directly confronting gender inequality. Andrews’ sculptures have included reinterpretations of the Oscar statuette and installations featuring the names of women who have run for president.

Looking Ahead

Andrews believes the increasing frequency of disasters demands a shift in perspective. She suggests that rather than striving to return to “normal,” communities must accept these events as the “new normal” and focus on building more resilient and equitable systems. It is possible that Andrews will continue to expand her work with the Judith Center, potentially increasing its reach and impact. Further, her experience may inspire others to create similar mutual aid networks in response to future crises. The ongoing challenges could also lead to a greater emphasis on preventative measures and systemic changes to address the root causes of these disasters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the purpose of the Grief & Hope fund?

The Grief & Hope fund aimed to provide direct and rapid support to artists and cultural workers displaced by the Palisades fire and other Los Angeles County wildfires.

How many people did Grief & Hope assist?

The volunteer-run effort distributed $1.74 million to nearly 300 people across Los Angeles County.

What other work is Kathryn Andrews involved in?

In addition to her art practice, Andrews is a practicing therapist and the founder of the Judith Center, a nonprofit dedicated to examining sexism in various fields.

As communities grapple with increasingly frequent disasters, what role can artists and cultural workers play in fostering resilience and reimagining the future?

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Health Facility Rehabilitation After Sumatra Disaster to Finish in March

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Efforts to restore healthcare infrastructure in three provinces of Sumatra following a recent disaster are underway, with a target completion date of March 2026, according to Minister of Health Budi Gunadi Sadikin. The recovery is being implemented in stages to ensure continued access to medical care for the affected population.

Initial Recovery Efforts

The initial phase of recovery focused on clearing debris and mud – in some cases reaching the height of an adult – from nine hospitals. By mid-December 2025, these hospitals had reopened, with a priority on restoring emergency department (IGD) services. Of 850 community health centers that were initially forced to suspend operations, only four remain in intensive recovery.

Did You Know? Flood debris at nine hospitals reached a height equivalent to that of an adult.

Damage Assessment and Repair

Beyond rebuilding structures, the Ministry of Health is addressing damage to essential support systems. A total of 205 ambulances were damaged in the disaster. Collaboration with automotive companies has led to the repair of 50 ambulances via on-site mechanics, with another 80 undergoing more extensive repairs in workshops.

The disaster also impacted medical equipment and furniture. Technicians are currently assessing thousands of submerged computers and pieces of medical furniture to determine what can be salvaged. A budget of approximately 500 billion Rupiah is being proposed to cover the costs of repair and replacement.

Expert Insight: The need to replace not only large equipment but also basic items like mattresses and computers highlights the comprehensive impact of the disaster on healthcare delivery. A phased recovery approach is essential to address both immediate and long-term needs.

Minister Sadikin noted a significant need for furniture, specifically citing the availability of beds without mattresses and the widespread damage to computer systems requiring thousands of replacements.

Looking Ahead

If the proposed budget is approved, the Ministry of Health could accelerate the replacement of damaged equipment and furniture. Continued collaboration with automotive companies may lead to a faster turnaround on ambulance repairs. However, the intensive recovery of the remaining four community health centers could present ongoing challenges. It is possible that unforeseen complications in the repair of medical equipment could extend the overall recovery timeline.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the target date for full recovery of health facilities?

The target date for the total recovery of all hospitals and community health centers affected by the Sumatra floods is March 2026.

How many ambulances have been repaired so far?

As of January 8, 2026, 50 ambulances have been successfully repaired, with 80 more undergoing repairs.

What is the estimated cost for repairing and replacing damaged medical equipment?

The estimated budget needed for the repair and replacement of damaged medical equipment and supporting facilities is around 500 billion Rupiah.

What factors might influence the success of the recovery efforts in Sumatra?

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BCA Pushes Stunting Prevention for Sumatra Flood Victims

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Efforts to prevent stunting are underway in Indonesia, with a focus on long-term changes in nutritional and health behaviors at the family and community levels. These actions are particularly important following recent natural disasters, such as flooding in Sumatra.

Community-Based Prevention Programs

Since 2024, Bakti BCA has been implementing the “Let’s Prevent Stunting” (LPS) program. The program began by mapping local conditions and potential, then designing interventions to strengthen community capacity. This included engaging local leaders and providing educational resources to encourage positive health changes.

Did You Know? The LPS program has been active in both Nagari Guguak, West Sumatra, and Taman Indah Village, Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara.

In 2025, the LPS program expanded to include training for health workers, a digital monitoring system, and increased involvement of adolescents as health advocates. The program aims to support nutritional health from pregnancy through adolescence.

New Digital Tools for Monitoring

A new monitoring dashboard has been developed to help health workers and community members track child growth more efficiently. This system allows for quicker and more accurate data analysis, enabling early detection of stunting risks and a comprehensive view of nutritional conditions at the village level. Additionally, fetal monitors were distributed to community health centers in Nagari Guguak and Taman Indah Village to improve monitoring of pregnant women’s health.

Expert Insight: The integration of digital tools like the monitoring dashboard represents a significant step toward data-driven public health interventions. This approach allows for more targeted resource allocation and a more proactive response to emerging nutritional challenges.

The LPS program also encourages the consumption of iron-folic acid tablets and recognizes the contributions of local champions, health workers, and program participants. Participants in the Remaja Lapangan Sekolah program have been designated as Adolescent Stunting Ambassadors, tasked with promoting healthy lifestyles within their communities.

Program participants have showcased successful practices, including home gardens producing vegetables like eggplant and tomatoes, and presentations of healthy menus tailored to the nutritional needs of toddlers, pregnant women, and adolescents. These efforts demonstrate a commitment to locally-relevant and sustainable solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary goal of the LPS program?

The primary goal of the LPS program is to strengthen the capacity and independence of communities to prevent stunting, from the pregnancy period through adolescence.

Where has the LPS program been implemented?

The LPS program has been implemented in Nagari Guguak, Padang Pariaman District, West Sumatra, and Taman Indah Village, Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara.

What new tools are being used to monitor stunting risks?

A new digital monitoring dashboard and fetal monitors have been introduced to help health workers record, analyze, and respond to potential stunting risks more effectively.

How might communities continue to build on these efforts to address stunting in the future?

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Former PM Says Aceh Shielded Malaysia From Cyclone That Triggered Disasters

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Tropical Cyclone Senyar triggered devastating floods and landslides across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra in late November 2025, resulting in widespread damage and loss of life. Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has publicly stated that Aceh province effectively acted as a “protector,” shielding Malaysia from the full impact of the storm.

Aceh’s Role as a Natural Barrier

Mahathir explained that while thousands perished in Aceh, Malaysia experienced no fatalities. He attributes this to the island of Sumatra, and specifically Aceh, blocking the cyclone’s path. “Aceh is a protective shield that saves Malaysia,” he stated in a video posted to his social media accounts on December 25, 2025.

Did You Know? In 2004, a tsunami devastated Aceh’s coastline while Malaysia remained safe, a historical event Mahathir referenced in his recent statement.

Mahathir further noted that Aceh, along with North Sumatra and West Sumatra, has historically served as a natural barrier against major natural calamities impacting Malaysia. He emphasized a moral responsibility for Malaysia to provide assistance to those affected.

Current Situation and Calls for Aid

The disaster has left many residents in Aceh struggling with destroyed homes and food shortages. Mahathir has urged Malaysians to contribute to relief efforts, specifically directing support to the Aceh Transition Committee (KPA). The floods and landslides have impacted 52 districts and cities across the three Sumatran provinces.

As of December 25, 2025, Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reported 1,135 deaths. Aceh has suffered the highest number of fatalities, with 503 deaths across 18 districts and cities. 174 people remain missing.

Expert Insight: The framing of Aceh as a “protector” highlights the interconnectedness of regional geography and disaster vulnerability. While acknowledging this natural buffer, it’s crucial to remember the immense human cost borne by the affected communities and the ongoing need for international support.

North Sumatra has extended its disaster emergency status in response to the ongoing crisis.

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused the floods and landslides?

Tropical Cyclone Senyar, which formed over the Indian Ocean, triggered the floods and landslides across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra in late November 2025.

How many people have been affected by the disaster?

As of December 25, 2025, the disaster has claimed 1,135 lives, with 503 fatalities in Aceh alone. 174 people are still missing, and hundreds of thousands of homes have been damaged across 52 districts and cities.

What is the Aceh Transition Committee (KPA)?

The Aceh Transition Committee (KPA) is a committee established to help the people of Aceh facing hardship as a result of the disaster, and is the organization to which Mahathir urged Malaysians to donate.

Given the scale of devastation and the ongoing needs of those affected, what role can international cooperation play in long-term recovery efforts in the region?

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Nasaruddin Umar Links Christmas 2025 to Care for the Earth

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Indonesia’s Minister of Religious Affairs, Nasaruddin Umar, delivered an official Christmas 2025 address framing the holiday as a call to environmental stewardship. The message, released by the Ministry of Religious Affairs on Friday, December 26, 2025, connects faith with practical action to address climate change and environmental damage.

A Call to Action

Minister Nasaruddin Umar urged families to actively participate in finding solutions to environmental challenges. He stated, “Faith must touch the way we live. Reducing plastic, planting trees, and saving energy—these are our expressions of gratitude to God for His creation.”

Did You Know? Minister Nasaruddin Umar delivered his Christmas 2025 address on Friday, December 26, 2025.

Addressing Current Challenges

The address acknowledged the recent disasters impacting parts of Sumatra, emphasizing that the true strength of Christmas lies in supporting those affected. Minister Nasaruddin Umar stated, “The strength of Christmas lies not in the extravagance of the celebration, but in the courage to share the burden with those who are wounded.”

The Importance of Family

Beyond environmental concerns and disaster relief, the Minister underscored the central role of the family. He described the family as “the heart of the nation,” asserting that strong families are foundational to thriving churches, harmonious societies, and a hopeful Indonesia.

Expert Insight: Framing Christmas as a time for both environmental responsibility and familial strengthening suggests a deliberate effort to connect spiritual observance with tangible societal needs. This approach could be seen as a strategy to promote national unity and resilience in the face of ongoing challenges.

Minister Nasaruddin Umar believes that resilient families are essential, particularly during times of social division, economic pressure, and disaster. He stated the Ministry of Religious Affairs has prioritized strengthening family resilience as a strategic goal. He further emphasized that families are responsible for instilling values of moderation, empathy, and social duty.

The Minister concluded by expressing hope that Christmas would serve as a catalyst for solidarity and humanity, envisioning families as “a harbor of saving love, as well as a guardian of the universe entrusted by God.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main message of Minister Nasaruddin Umar’s Christmas address?

The main message is that Christmas is a call for people of faith to demonstrate their beliefs through care for the planet and support for those in need, particularly in the context of recent disasters in Sumatra.

According to the address, what role do families play in Indonesian society?

According to the address, families are the “heart of the nation” and are essential for building strong churches, harmonious societies, and a hopeful Indonesia.

What specific actions did Minister Nasaruddin Umar suggest to demonstrate faith?

Minister Nasaruddin Umar suggested reducing plastic consumption, planting trees, and saving energy as expressions of gratitude to God for His creation.

How might this message influence future initiatives related to environmental protection and social welfare in Indonesia?

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Health

Disasters Leave Children in Indonesia at Risk of Sleep Disorders and PTSD

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

The Silent Trauma: Rising Mental Health Needs of Children After Natural Disasters

Recent findings from the Indonesian Pediatric Society (IDAI) in West Sumatra paint a stark picture: natural disasters aren’t just physical tragedies; they leave deep, often invisible, scars on the mental well-being of children. A study revealed that approximately 65% of children in the Palembayan sub-district experienced sleep disorders following the devastating floods and landslides that impacted Sumatra in late 2025. This isn’t an isolated incident, but a growing trend demanding urgent attention.

The Disproportionate Impact on Young Minds

Children are uniquely vulnerable after disasters. Their developing brains are still forming, making them more susceptible to the long-term psychological effects of trauma. Unlike adults, children often lack the coping mechanisms and verbal skills to process and express their fear, grief, and anxiety. This can manifest in a variety of ways, from sleep disturbances and behavioral changes to more serious conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety disorders.

The IDAI study found a staggering 89% of children assessed were at risk of developing PTSD. This echoes global trends observed after events like the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami in Japan, where long-term mental health issues were prevalent among children. The scale of the recent Sumatra disasters – claiming over 1,100 lives, injuring thousands, and displacing hundreds of thousands – suggests a widespread mental health crisis is unfolding.

Beyond PTSD: A Spectrum of Psychological Distress

While PTSD is a significant concern, it’s crucial to recognize the broader spectrum of psychological distress children experience. The IDAI report identified cases of panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and separation anxiety. Even children who don’t meet the diagnostic criteria for a specific disorder may exhibit increased irritability, difficulty concentrating, regression in behavior (like bedwetting), or clinginess.

Did you know? Children’s reactions to trauma can differ significantly based on their age, pre-existing mental health conditions, and the level of support they receive.

The Growing Need for Psychosocial Intervention

The situation in Sumatra underscores a critical gap in disaster response: the insufficient integration of mental health support. Traditionally, disaster relief efforts prioritize immediate needs like food, shelter, and medical care. However, research consistently demonstrates that early psychosocial intervention is vital for mitigating the long-term psychological consequences of trauma.

IDAI’s collaboration with child psychologists to provide trauma-healing support is a positive step, but it’s likely insufficient to meet the overwhelming need. A comprehensive approach requires:

  • Training for First Responders: Equipping frontline workers with basic psychological first aid skills.
  • School-Based Mental Health Programs: Providing counseling and support services within schools, creating a safe space for children to process their experiences.
  • Community-Based Support Groups: Facilitating peer support networks where children and families can connect and share their stories.
  • Integrated Referral Systems: Establishing clear pathways for children needing specialized mental health care.

Future Trends: Proactive Mental Health in Disaster Preparedness

Looking ahead, the focus must shift towards proactive mental health preparedness. This means incorporating psychological resilience-building into disaster risk reduction strategies. Several emerging trends offer promising solutions:

  • Telehealth for Mental Health: Utilizing technology to deliver remote counseling and support, particularly in geographically isolated areas. This is becoming increasingly viable with improved internet access in many disaster-prone regions.
  • Play-Based Therapy: Recognizing the power of play in helping children process trauma, therapists are increasingly using play-based interventions.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Adapting mental health interventions to align with local cultural norms and beliefs. What works in one context may not be effective in another.
  • Data-Driven Approaches: Leveraging data analytics to identify vulnerable populations and tailor interventions accordingly.

Pro Tip: Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in supporting children’s mental health after a disaster. Creating a sense of safety, providing consistent routines, and encouraging open communication are essential.

The Role of Technology and AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) is beginning to play a role in mental health support, particularly in disaster situations. AI-powered chatbots can provide immediate emotional support and connect individuals with resources. Machine learning algorithms can analyze social media data to identify communities in need of assistance. However, ethical considerations and the need for human oversight are paramount.

FAQ: Children and Disaster-Related Trauma

  • Q: What are the signs that a child is struggling after a disaster?
    A: Changes in sleep or eating habits, increased irritability, difficulty concentrating, regression in behavior, and withdrawal from social activities.
  • Q: How can I help a child who is experiencing trauma?
    A: Provide a safe and supportive environment, listen to their concerns, and encourage them to express their feelings.
  • Q: When should I seek professional help?
    A: If symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, or if they are interfering with the child’s daily life.

The events in Sumatra serve as a powerful reminder that disaster preparedness must encompass not only physical safety but also the psychological well-being of those affected, especially the most vulnerable – our children. Investing in mental health support is not just a humanitarian imperative; it’s an investment in the future resilience of communities.

Learn more about child psychosocial support from UNICEF.

What are your thoughts? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below. Explore our other articles on disaster preparedness and mental health for more information.

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Aceh urges govt to allow entry of humanitarian aid from Malaysia – Archipelago

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Residents of Aceh are pressing the Indonesian government to permit the arrival of 500 tonnes of humanitarian aid from Malaysia, as flood survivors continue to grapple with the aftermath nearly three weeks after the disaster struck the province.

Why the Aid Is Stalled

The aid, contributed by Acehnese communities residing in Malaysia, remains in Malaysia because Indonesia has not declared the floods a national emergency, a prerequisite for foreign humanitarian assistance, according to Aceh administration spokesperson Teuku Kamaruzzaman.

Teuku told the Jakarta Post that the central government should grant a dispensation to allow the aid to enter Aceh even without a national emergency declaration, emphasizing that “all humanitarian aid should not be delayed and must be expedited to reach displaced residents in urgent need of assistance.”

Logistics of the Planned Shipment

Datuk Mansyur Usman, president of the Aceh Community in Malaysia, said his group intended to transport the supplies from Port Klang in Selangor to the coastal town of Krueng Geukueh in Aceh using a private cargo vessel.

Did You Know? The aid package totals 500 tonnes and is slated for shipment from Port Klang, Malaysia, to the Aceh port of Krueng Geukueh.

Official Response

Deputy Chief of Mission at the Indonesian Embassy in Malaysia, Danang Waskito, indicated that the request to admit the aid could not be approved in the near term because Indonesia has yet to issue a national emergency declaration for the floods.

Expert Insight: The stalemate highlights how procedural thresholds, such as a formal emergency declaration, can impede rapid relief delivery. Even well‑intentioned community‑driven aid may be caught in bureaucratic delays, potentially worsening the humanitarian situation for displaced residents until policy adjustments are made.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the humanitarian aid from Malaysia not yet entering Aceh?

The aid is held up because Indonesia has not declared the floods a national emergency, which is required for foreign humanitarian assistance to be permitted.

Who is advocating for the aid to be allowed entry?

Aceh administration spokesperson Teuku Kamaruzzaman and Datuk Mansyur Usman, president of the Aceh Community in Malaysia, are leading the call for a dispensation to let the aid enter the province.

What condition must be met for foreign aid to be approved?

Indonesia must declare the flooding a national emergency; this declaration is a prerequisite for the entry of foreign humanitarian aid.

How do you think the situation might evolve if the government grants a dispensation for the aid?

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Today’s Top 3 News: Indonesian Diaspora Says Overseas Aid for Sumatra Disaster Is Being Taxed

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Today’s roundup highlights three distinct developments: concerns from the Indonesian diaspora in Singapore over tax treatment of flood relief, Indonesia’s position in the 2025 SEA Games medal race, and the announced lineup for the Music Bank Global Festival in Tokyo.

Indonesian diaspora says overseas aid for Sumatra disaster is being taxed

Members of the Indonesian diaspora in Singapore have complained that humanitarian assistance sent from abroad is being treated as taxable imported goods unless the Indonesian government declares the Sumatra floods a national emergency.

One donor, identified as Fika, posted on Instagram @ffawzia07 on December 11, 2025: “If donations from the diaspora are sent while the Sumatra floods have not been declared a national disaster, the aid will be taxed.”

She and other diaspora members argue that the tax policy could deter valuable support for flood victims.

SEA Games 2025 medal standings day 4: Indonesia holds third place

After four days of competition, Indonesia remains third in the provisional medal table for the 2025 Southeast Asian Games, trailing Vietnam by four gold medals.

On December 12, 2025 Indonesia added seven gold, five silver and four bronze medals, bringing its total to 72 medals (20 gold, 28 silver, 24 bronze). Thailand leads with 66 gold medals, while Vietnam holds second place with 24 gold medals.

The standings underscore a tight race for regional sporting supremacy as the Games progress.

Music Bank Global Festival 2025 lineup: Stray Kids, ITZY, Hearts2Hearts, and more

The first stop of the Music Bank Global Festival will take place December 13‑14, 2025 at Tokyo’s Japan National Stadium. Organized by KBS, the two‑day K‑pop event will feature veteran acts such as U‑Know Yunho (TVXQ) alongside groups like TXT, ENHYPEN, Stray Kids, IVE and emerging rookies.

With a venue capacity exceeding 60,000, the festival is positioned to become one of the year’s largest K‑pop celebrations.

Did You Know? The Sumatra floods have not been declared a national disaster by the Indonesian government as of December 11, 2025.
Expert Insight: The tax requirement for overseas donations could limit rapid relief delivery, prompting diaspora groups to seek clarification or advocacy for an emergency declaration. In the sporting arena, Indonesia’s medal haul suggests strong depth but highlights the need for additional golds to challenge Thailand’s lead. The Music Bank Festival’s scale reflects K‑pop’s expanding global footprint and may set new benchmarks for cross‑border concert logistics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are overseas donations to Sumatra potentially subject to tax?

According to a diaspora donor, Indonesian law treats aid sent from abroad as taxable imported goods unless the government officially declares the disaster a national emergency.

How many medals has Indonesia won by the fourth day of the SEA Games?

Indonesia has accumulated a total of 72 medals: 20 gold, 28 silver and 24 bronze.

When and where will the Music Bank Global Festival 2025 take place?

The festival is scheduled for December 13‑14, 2025 at Japan’s National Stadium in Tokyo.

What other developments do you think could shape these stories in the coming weeks?

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