JAKARTA - The General Chair of the Indonesian Red Cross (Ketum PMI) Jusuf Kalla confirmed that foreign aid was allowed to enter Aceh as long as it was intended for humanitarian purposes and was well coordinated by the government.
JK conveyed this statement while reviewing the disaster and evacuation locations in Palu Raya and Bungkah Villages, Muara Batu District, North Aceh Regency, Aceh.
"We see many houses that are destroyed, but there are also those that can still be inhabited. Houses that can no longer be used are of course replaced, while those that can still be cleaned. That's the solution," said Jusuf Kalla in a written statement quoted by ANTARA, Friday, December 19.
Responding to complaints from residents who said that there had been no maximum handling by the Government for almost 20 days, JK said the decision to accept foreign aid would depend on the Government's calculation of the ability to handle disasters.
"If the government is able, there is no need to ask. But if the burden is too great, yes. Especially if there are international communities who want to help, it is a good form of humanity," he added.
JK menegaskan prinsip kemanusiaan tidak mengenal batas wilayah.
"If humanity has no territorial boundaries," he said.
Regarding the role of the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI), JK explained that PMI was not authorized to build houses, but focused on logistical assistance and basic needs of affected residents.
"If you build a house, it is the Government's business. PMI helps materials such as food, gas stoves, health, logistics, clean water," he said.
JK also invited all parties to work together in handling disasters.
"The government is working, PMI is working, the community is working. Everyone must work together so that solutions can be achieved," he said.
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