DPR Asks Regional TKD For Areas Affected By The Sumatra Disaster Not To Be Reduced

Deputy Chairman of Commission XIII of the House of Representatives, Sugiat Santoso, asked the government not to reduce the transfer funds to regions (TKD) affected by the disaster in North Sumatra.

He emphasized that the TKD budget must be fully distributed so that disaster-affected areas can carry out recovery quickly and optimally.

"I hope that in the context of areas whose status is considered a disaster area, the regional financial transfer should not be reduced," said Sugiat at the DPR building, Jakarta, Wednesday, December 3.

Sugiat explained, in normal conditions alone, the TKD budget that has been set by the government is not enough to meet the needs of each region. Moreover, he said, if added to repair all facilities damaged by flash floods and landslides.

"This is normal for those who are now, their current existence is very lacking. Especially coupled with disasters," he said.

Sugiat said that currently, especially North Sumatra (North Sumatra), West Sumatra (West Sumatra), and Aceh really need costs to restore the conditions of their respective areas after the disaster.

He also said that the damage caused by flash floods or landslides was quite extensive, ranging from hundreds of bridges that were cut off to other infrastructure damaged.

"That needs handling from the center. It is impossible for districts/cities or provinces to rebuild it. Because they do not have a budget, especially with the TKD situation, they are reduced," he said.

Therefore, the Gerindra legislator from the North Sumatra III electoral district reminded the Ministry of Finance (Kemenkeu) not to cut TKD funds for disaster-affected areas. If necessary, said Sugiat, the government will increase TKD funds for these areas.

"I hope that the Minister of Finance (Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa) for disaster areas, the regional financial transfer is met 100 percent, even if necessary, it will be added," he said.