The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) is prioritizing the distribution of essential supplies to remote island communities in North Maluku, specifically Mayau and Tifure, following a 7.6-magnitude earthquake on April 2. Efforts are focused on ensuring logistics reach these isolated areas promptly.
Agus Riyanto, BNPB Director for Regional Handling I, confirmed that coordination for the deployment of a State Search and Rescue (SAR) vessel has been initiated to facilitate the transportation of humanitarian aid. This measure aims to address the immediate needs of residents in the most inaccessible locations.
Beyond material assistance, trauma healing services are being provided to affected populations. These psychological support programs are delivered by the Social Affairs Office, with active support from the Indonesian Military (TNI) and the Police. The central government has affirmed its full commitment to backing North Maluku’s emergency response operations.
BNPB also stated that the established process for repairing homes damaged by natural disasters will be followed. A recent coordination meeting reinforced a collective commitment from all government agencies to maintain continuous public service delivery, even during national holidays.
The earthquake, which struck on April 2, impacted a wide area across North Maluku. Four districts and two cities, including Ternate City and Tidore City, as well as West Halmahera, North Halmahera, Central Halmahera, and South Halmahera districts, were among the 27 sub-districts and 46 villages affected.
North Maluku Deputy Governor Sarbin Sehe had previously emphasized the critical need for a swift and integrated approach to managing the earthquake’s aftermath. Preliminary assessments indicate no fatalities have been reported, though one individual sustained minor injuries.
Approximately two thousand people have been impacted by the seismic event. Currently, 1,107 individuals from 113 households remain in various evacuation shelters. The physical infrastructure damage includes 99 houses severely damaged, 66 moderately damaged, and 139 lightly damaged.
Source: Original
