There Must Be Conseling Assistance In Facing Trauma For Fire Victims In South Petojo

Photo by Matt C on Unsplash

JAKARTA - Commission VIII of the House of Representatives encourages the Government to immediately distribute aid to fire victims in South Petojo, Gambir, Central Jakarta. As a result of this fire, two people died and dozens of people were injured.

"We express our deepest condolences to the victims who died, the injured victims and all the fire victims. Hopefully, the spirits of the victims who died can be accepted by Allah SWT," said Member of Commission VIII DPR Selly Andriani in Lieu, Saturday, August 26.

The red rooster went berserk in a densely populated settlement on Jalan Kebon Ginger, Gang Kober, South Petojo, Gambir, Central Jakarta, Wednesday (28/8) night. As a result, 196 families or about 600 people in four RTs were affected by the fire. Apart from the two people who died, the fire left 20 residents injured. The red rooster also scorched more than 150 houses and caused 274 residents to flee.

"This is not only a moral responsibility, but also a humanitarian responsibility that must be fulfilled with dedication and empathy," said Selly.

Currently, the refugee camps for fire victims are centered in the yard of the Central Jakarta City Government (Pemkot) Office. Residents are also allowed to rest at the Al Fauz Mosque, which is located right on the side of the Central Jakarta Mayor's office.

Selly revealed that all stakeholders need cooperation to help fire victims.

"Food and food assistance must be a priority. Ensure a good cooperation in providing assistance so that it is accepted by affected residents, including masks, especially now that Jakarta is surrounded by air pollution," he said.

Furthermore, Selly said the fire victims also needed support and attention to get through difficult times. Given that the victims lost their homes, property and psychological trauma caused by the disaster.

"The assistance provided by the Government must be appropriate and cover the basic needs of the affected residents. This includes special needs for infants, children, the elderly, pregnant/breastfeeding mothers, and the elderly," said Selly.

"It is also necessary to provide counseling support to help residents overcome the stress and trauma caused by the fire," continued the legislator from the West Java VIII electoral district.

According to Selly, residents need moral support because their recovery process until they return to normal life will not take a long time.

"Although the recovery process will take a long time and tough challenges, support and concern are the strengths able to overcome these difficulties and help fire victims rebuild their lives," said Selly.

Regarding the evacuation sites for fire victims, Selly reminded that they should be prepared according to appropriate humanitarian standards.

"Temporary shelters must be safe, comfortable, and adequate, so that the affected residents do not feel neglected," he appealed.

The fire also resulted in significant economic losses for the victims. Selly assessed that assistance from the Government could ease their burden.

"Give social assistance to affected victims to start their lives again. The state must be present in every difficulty of the community, especially those affected by the disaster," he said.

On the other hand, Selly reminded the importance of effective response actions against fire victims.

"With more responsive actions, the Government can ensure that Indonesia remains steadfast in facing disaster challenges and provides examples to the world about how a caring government can provide protection and hope for its citizens," concluded Selly.