KETAPANG (12 December 2023) - Minister of Social Affairs Tri Rismaharini visited and distributed aid to flood victims in Sandai District, Ketapang Regency, West Kalimantan, Tuesday (12/12) afternoon. The floods that hit Sindai District, which is located about 350 kilometers from Pontianak City or about six hours by road, have paralyzed community activities.

The flood was caused by heavy rain which flushed the area so that the Pawan River overflowed and inundated residential areas since Wednesday (23/11) or more than two weeks ago. Even though the floodwaters are starting to recede, some residents are still living in evacuee camps and emergency tents provided by Ministry of Social Affairs (MoSA).

When visiting flood victims, Minister of Social Affairs assisted 20 packages of kitchen utensils, 100 blankets, 24 packages of kids wear, 25 mattresses, 200 packages of ready-to-eat side dishes, 150 gas stoves, 5 boxes of diapers, 110 packages of adult clothing, and 80 packages of children's clothing. Previously, MoSA also distributed 800 ready-to-eat meals.

"MoSA sent aid when the disaster first occurred on November 29, but because the location was far away, we created a buffer stock. To serve the community, MoSA is building social granaries in several areas," said the Minister at Sandai District Official House, West Kalimantan, Tuesday (12/12/2023).

Head of Sandai District, Markus, said that the number of people affected was 11,565 people. Apart from that, the flood resulted in many infrastructures being submerged, including 3,861 housing units, 3 market units, 12 educational facilities, 6 health facilities, 15 worship facilities, 2 village offices, 1 BUMdes office, and 2 other buildings. "When the flood reached its peak, most residents were forced to flee to relatives' homes or other safe places," said Markus.

Head of Ketapang Regency Regional Board on Disaster Management (BPBD), Yunifar said that currently the flood condition is in recovery status. "Flooding occurred starting November 23, then on November 28, an emergency response was declared," said Yunifar.

According to the provisions, the emergency response lasts 14 days, so the emergency response status ends on December 11. "Currently, the status is a recovery period, but we remain vigilant because usually around January-February the Pawan River will overflow," she said.

The river overflows, especially if in the upstream part, namely Hulu Sungai District, there is heavy rain.

Minister of Social Affairs arrived at the location to meet directly with the affected communities, hold dialogue, and distribute aid in Sandai District. Minister of Social Affairs was accompanied by Head of BPBD Ketapang Regency Yunifar, Head of Sandai Village Suriadi, and Head of Sandai District Markus.

Interestingly, Risma was also welcomed by children who were victims of the flood disaster. “Was the water hit the house? Where do you sleep? Sleep in the attic, right?" asked the Minister. The children laughed and were happy because Risma also gave them gifts of toys and some snacks.

Public Relations Bureau
Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs