Indonesia Receives International Humanitarian Assistance After Devastating Earthquake

Strategic Insights -

The Government of Indonesia is working diligently to mitigate the effects of a recent earthquake that has ravaged Aceh and North Sumatra. The country is extremely grateful for the substantial humanitarian aid provided by international organizations, NGOs, individuals, and friendly nations worldwide. Despite the severity of the disaster, particularly in Aceh, the Indonesian government has facilitated international humanitarian assistance by offering the widest possible access to aid workers and materials.

Key Takeaways:

  • 18 friendly countries have pledged and dispatched humanitarian aid to Indonesia, including Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and India.
  • International humanitarian assistance has been provided in both financial donations and in-kind aid, with most support being handed over directly to the National Agency for Natural Disaster Relief (Bakornas PBP) or the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI).
  • Assistance has been provided in various forms, including food, medicine, blankets, body bags, and search and rescue teams.
  • The Indonesian government has issued 50 flight clearances to expedite the transportation of aid workers and in-kind assistance.
  • The crew of cargo flights have been granted visa-on-arrival facility with no fee incurred.
  • President Yudhoyono expressed appreciation for UN Secretary General Kofi Annan's support during a telephone conversation, and Indonesia notes the growing support of the international community for its proposal to convene an international conference to coordinate reconstruction efforts.

Statistics:

  • 18 countries have pledged humanitarian aid to Indonesia.
  • 42 sorties of cargo and other flights have been sent to provide relief materials.
  • International humanitarian assistance has been provided in both financial donations and in-kind aid.
  • Most assistance has been handed over directly to the National Agency for Natural Disaster Relief (Bakornas PBP) or the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI).
  • 50 flight clearances have been issued to expedite the transportation of aid workers and in-kind assistance.

Sources:

  • Department of Foreign affairs - Indonesia
  • ASIA PULSE 03-01 1947