54 BTS Kolaps, Komdigi Sebar 32 Starlink Free In West Sumatra
The Indonesian Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) moved quickly to restore communication networks in West Sumatra (West Sumatra) which were paralyzed by floods and landslides. Efforts to deal with the emergency are focused on the distribution of the Starlink satellite internet and the improvement of hundreds of affected Base Transceiver Stations (BTS).
Head of the Padang Ministry of Komdigi Class II Monitoring Center, Helmi, said that as many as 32 Starlink satellite internet units had been deployed to affected areas. This support is provided free of charge to ensure that communication routes for emergency handling can be reconnected.
"This internet satellite tool assistance is free. We emphasize that the use of this facility is free of charge," Helmi said in his statement, quoted on Friday, November 5, 2025.
In addition to providing Starlink, Komdigi also handles disruptions to BTS. Data as of December 3, 2025 showed a total of 154 BTS units were disrupted from a total of 3,739 units in West Sumatra, which is equivalent to about 4% of the total.
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Of the total disruptions, 124 units were caused by power supply disruptions, but officers had deployed generators. Meanwhile, 29 BTS experienced transmission disruptions due to a break in the fiber optic connection or radio link, and 1 BTS suffered physical damage.
The distribution of BTS that was most affected was in Agam Regency (45 BTS), Pasaman (37 BTS), and Padang Pariaman (18 BTS).
Komdigi together with the West Sumatra Communications and Information Office (Diskominfotik) are trying to accelerate the repair of communication lines. Rudi Rinaldi, Head of West Sumatra Communications and Information Technology, ensures that Starlink distribution has been coordinated with the local BPBD. Starlink devices are capable of reaching up to 1 km and can be used by 60 users simultaneously, provided they receive electricity support and there are no obstacles to satellite signals.
As additional support, Balai Monitor also operates a disaster repeater at the top of Mount Singgalang, which effectively reaches 9 to 10 districts and cities in West Sumatra, and has been utilized by BPBD and other communication volunteers.