Government Aid: Relief Supplies for Mount Ibu Eruption Victims
Jakarta – In response to the recent eruption of Mount Ibu in West Halmahera District, North Maluku Province, the Ministry of Social Affairs has taken swift action to provide much-needed aid to the affected residents.
Ministry Mobilizes Relief Efforts
Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf announced that the Ministry has allocated 651 million rupiahs (approximately 39,000 US dollars) to procure critical relief supplies and essential needs packages. These supplies were dispatched through the Wasana Bahagia Center in Ternate on January 15, 2025.
The aid package included a range of vital supplies such as family tents, multipurpose tents, instant food packages, children’s clothing, blankets, essential family kits, and other critical items. Additionally, supplementary aid was distributed through social warehouses in North Maluku Province, providing instant food packages, children’s food, rolled tents, mattresses, blankets, women’s sanitary pads, and rice to those in need.
Immediate Response to Food Needs
Recognizing the urgent food requirements of the affected population, Disaster Preparedness Cadets (Tagana) in West Halmahera District wasted no time in setting up a public kitchen on January 17 at the SMKS Anak Negeri school in Akesibu Village, Ibu Sub-district. This initiative aimed to ensure that no one went hungry during this challenging time.
The eruption of Mount Ibu on January 15 led to the escalation of the volcano’s alert status to the highest level, with volcanic ash plumes reaching altitudes of up to four thousand meters above the summit. As a result, 649 individuals from 287 households across six sub-districts had to be evacuated to safety.
Support and Solidarity in Times of Crisis
In times of crisis, it is heartening to see the government’s swift response in providing much-needed aid and support to those affected by natural disasters. The Ministry of Social Affairs’ efforts to mobilize relief supplies and essential provisions demonstrate a commitment to ensuring the well-being of all citizens, especially in times of adversity.
As we witness the resilience and solidarity of communities coming together to overcome challenges, let us also reflect on the importance of unity in times of crisis. Together, we can weather any storm and emerge stronger, supporting one another through thick and thin.
In conclusion, the government’s aid initiatives in response to the Mount Ibu eruption serve as a reminder of the importance of collective action and compassion in times of need. Let us continue to stand united and extend a helping hand to our fellow citizens in their time of distress.
