The Indonesian Ombudsman urged the Government to immediately implement "extraordinary" disaster management measures and optimally coordinated following the massive impact of flash floods that hit a number of areas in Sumatra. This call is based on the wide impact of disasters, infrastructure damage, disruption of basic public services, and increasing the number of affected residents.
The chairman of the Indonesian Ombudsman, Mokhammad Najih, emphasized that the Government is obliged to optimize the fulfillment of the basic needs of the community so that public services continue to run during the emergency response period.
"This disaster is not just suffering for the affected, but is a common concern that must be handled seriously," Najih said in his statement, quoted by VOI, Friday, November 5, 2025.
The Ombudsman encouraged the government to immediately take strategic steps, including ensuring the availability of nine basic commodities by monitoring prices and strict distribution. Recovery of land transportation access must also be prioritized through temporary solutions to road damage and bridges that hinder residents' mobility and logistics distribution.
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Najih highlighted the need to accelerate the recovery of vital services. PLN was asked to restore electricity in important facilities, and PERUMDAM/PDAM was encouraged to ensure clean water supply through alternative networks or tank cars. Pertamina was also asked to ensure the availability and smooth distribution of fuel and LPG, with the possibility of limiting purchases to prevent panic buying.
Furthermore, Najih said, the government together with telecommunications service providers must accelerate the recovery of communication networks so that field reports can be submitted quickly and accurately. Local governments are also expected to provide information on disaster management in an open, periodic manner, and in accordance with factual conditions.
"Collaboration across agencies is the key so that the fulfillment of basic needs in emergency times remains guaranteed. This effort is also in line with the President's Asta Cita which emphasizes the harmony of human life with the environment and nature," concluded Najih.
During the emergency response and recovery period, the Indonesian Ombudsman will continue to monitor the implementation of public services and open a public complaint room regarding potential maladministration in disaster management.
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