Governor: West Sumatra Emergency Response Status Potentially Extended

The Governor of West Sumatra (West Sumatra) Mahyeldi gave an explanation regarding the possibility of extending the emergency response period in Padang, (photo; dock.)

The Governor of West Sumatra (West Sumatra) Mahyeldi said that the status of the emergency response for natural disasters in the province has the potential to be largely extended. The reason is, until now a number of districts and cities are still focused on handling emergencies in the field.

"Our emergency response work is still there and has not been completed. It is certain that it will be extended because the settlement has not yet been completed," said Mahyeldi in Padang, Sunday, December 7.

He explained that all regional heads have been asked to send reports and input regarding the current conditions in their respective regions. This information will be the basis for the provincial government to make an official decision on December 8, 2025.

"Currently the Regional Secretary is preparing documents and discussing them together. We also ask for input from districts and cities," he added.

Mahyeldi said several areas such as Solok City, Payakumbuh, and Bukittinggi have shown more stable conditions and may no longer require emergency status. However, a number of other areas are still facing complex situations.

These areas include Agam Regency, Pariaman City, Pesisir Selatan, and several other points that are still experiencing infrastructure damage and barriers to aid distribution.

In a number of locations, road and bridge access is still cut off, making it difficult to send logistics. The provincial government also continues to increase the supply of basic needs, ranging from food, clean water, sleeping equipment, to special assistance for pregnant women and toddlers.

We still distribute the food needs. For drinking water, we have sent a reservoir reservoir and are working on filling and reconnecting the distribution network," he explained.

The governor revealed that the number of refugees in West Sumatra still reaches around 20 thousand people. Most of the residents whose houses suffered severe damage were directed to stay temporarily in tents or temporary shelters (huntara) while waiting for an assessment of the feasibility of settlement locations.

"If their houses are no longer habitable and they own land, the government will help with development. If they do not own land, alternative locations will be found," said Mahyeldi.

In the midst of recovery efforts, the West Sumatra Provincial Government continues to receive support from various regions, including Riau, Jambi, as well as neighboring districts/cities. Assistance was also distributed by a number of agencies such as the TNI, Polri, Basarnas, as well as various volunteer groups.

Mahyeldi emphasized that cross-regional collaboration and institutions are very important, especially so that the distribution of aid runs smoothly without disturbing heavy equipment operations in the field.