MoSA Ensures Facilities in Sukabumi Refugee Post is Comfortable

SUKABUMI (January 28th, 2024) - The Director General of Social Protection and Security, Robben Rico accompanied by the Acting Director of Social Protection for Natural Disaster Victims (PSKBA), Muhammad Delmi visited the evacuation post for landslide victims in Mekarwangi Village, Cibadak District, Sukabumi, Saturday (27/1).

During his visit, Robben had a dialogue with volunteers in the refugee camps, one of whom was a member of the Disaster Response Volunteer (Tagana). This was to ensure that the evacuation post facilities were comfortable.

"Please, ensure that the refugee camps have high standards so that refugees feel comfortable with complete facilities. Make sure the toilets are always clean, available trash bins, a place for washing hands, a place for children to play, and the refugees' meal times are maintained," said Robben.

Since Mekarwangi Village, Cibadak District, Sukabumi was struck by landslide disaster on Wednesday (24/1), the Ministry of Social Affairs (MoSA) immediately mobilized Tagana Sukabumi Regency and task force to help the affected victims by setting up refugee tents along with portable toilets and installing solar cells to meet the electricity needs.

Besides, in order to supply basic needs and nutrition for refugees in refugee camps and people who were evacuating independently, MoSA had established a public kitchen which produced 1,200 packets of rice per day which were distributed three times in the morning, afternoon and evening.

MoSA also distributed logistical assistance through Sukabumi Regency Social Service Warehouse and “Phalamartha” Center in Sukabumi for victims affected by landslides in Sukabumi.

The assistance consisted of 5 family tents, 25 roll-up tents, 150 ready-to-eat meals, 150 ready-to-eat side dishes, 25 mattresses, 25 blankets, 25 family kits, 20 kidsware, 20 adult clothing and 20 children's clothing.

Ajeng, one of the refugees, was grateful for the various assistance given by MoSA. "Thank God, it's guaranteed. Mattresses were given, blankets were given, food was given three times a day. Thank God," she said.

Besides ensuring the facilities at the refugee post, Robben also talked with refugees consisting of mothers who were helping in the public kitchen. "Thank you to the mothers who have helped volunteers in the public kitchen. We keep these evacuation camps in good condition, safe and comfortable," said Robben.

Robben also appealed to residents not to return home for now until the conditions are safe enough as the area was still prone to landslides. Residents were expected to temporarily stay in refugee camps.