Pasaman and West Pasaman Earthquakes, MoSA Implements Family-Based Handling

WEST PASAMAN (28 February 2022) - After Pasaman and West Pasaman Regencies, West Sumatra Province was rocked by an earthquake measuring 6.1 magnitude on Friday (25/2), the Ministry of Social Affairs provided handling for earthquake survivors using a family approach.

"We will distribute family tents for each family whose house is already vulnerable. Then the family will install the tents at a certain point. We will leave the decision to each KK (Head of Family)," said Social Minister Tri Rismaharini while reviewing locations affected by the earthquake in West Pasaman.

As in Jorong Siparayo, Nagari Malampah, Tigo Nagari Subdistrict, Pasaman Regency, for example, after the family's tents arrived at the location, residents worked for hand in hand to set up tents in the area they determined for themselves around their damaged houses.

According to one of the residents affected by the earthquake in Pasaman Regency, Jaenuddin, this was the first time he installed a small family tent himself with a special installation technique.

"I've never put up a tent like this, it's the first time, but I'm happy, we get one for each family," he said.

This family tent is a 4x4 tent designed directly by the Minister of Social Affairs, Tri Rismaharini for family groups. The tent, which has a limited capacity of 4 to 5 people, is expected to avoid the spread of Covid-19.

The Acting Director of Social Protection for Victims of Natural Disasters (PSKBA), Iyan Kusmadiana added the placement of family tents in front of residents' houses is intended so that residents do not get restless.

"Residents do not have to evacuate far from their homes, it makes it easier for them to monitor the situation (of property) and communicate with residents. So, even though they are evacuating, they still feel comfortable," he said.

With this tent, he continued, each family is also more secure in their privacy. This tent is also equipped with supporting facilities, such as rolled mattresses, mattresses, blankets, and tent lights.

To date, 209 family tents have been set up in front of or around people's homes in Nagari Kajai, West Pasaman Regency. Meanwhile, in Nagari Malampah, Pasaman Regency, at least 15 units of family tents have been occupied by residents, and 30 others are still in the process of being installed in the yard of the Tigo Nagari District Office.