Sumatra Floods, Between Tragedy and Statistics |

Acehnese people raised the white flag as a symbol of no longer being able to cope with the disaster alone.

---

Various input from figures, experts, local governments, and affected communities has not moved the Indonesian government to declare the Sumatra floods a national disaster. The Indonesian government remains adamant that the disaster is under control, despite the facts on the ground showing otherwise.

What exactly is the reasoning behind the decision to declare the Sumatra floods a national disaster?

If we listen to President Prabowo Subianto's statement, the reasoning is that the disaster occurred in three provinces and the situation is under control. It is clear that the president is prioritizing statistical and quantitative aspects. Disasters are viewed more in terms of the number of provinces than in terms of human losses and other social damage.

We are forced to acknowledge the truth of the often-quoted statement regarding various humanitarian disasters: One death is a tragedy, a thousand deaths are statistics. The victims, whether dead, injured, disabled, or missing, are viewed merely as statistics. The same is true for the number of villages lost to floods, the number of houses destroyed or damaged, the number of bridges destroyed, or the number of lava flows that damage agricultural land.

All disasters caused by flooding are viewed as mere statistics, as if they lack the soul, emotion, and sorrow behind the disaster. Each ministry only records and records the number of victims and losses within its jurisdiction and responsibility.

As of December 22, 2025, the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) recorded 1,106 deaths: 477 in Aceh, 369 in North Sumatra, and 260 in West Sumatra. The BNPB also stated that 502,570 people were living in evacuation centers.

Data on losses, both in lives and infrastructure, is undeniable. Accurate data can determine the scale, form, and type of response that must be implemented immediately, including the distribution of targeted aid. Data also forms the basis for emergency policy-making in disaster areas, reduces conflicts and frequent irregularities such as illegal levies, and serves as a basis for evaluation and learning. Ultimately, accurate data will increase public trust in the government.

However, when focused solely on data, emergency response to victims is neglected. It's no wonder that the Central Aceh Regency Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) sent a pointed message on social media: "They're waiting for real action from the Aceh Provincial BPBD, not just asking for data!"

In fact, one person lost in a disaster leaves a deep wound for the family. If it's a man who is the head of the family, that one loss is a gamble for the family's future, for the children who dream of a better future. One loss, if it's a mother, means the children will lose unconditional love. In essence, even one person's death leaves deep sorrow for those who love them. It's a gamble for their lives, for better or worse.

Therefore, victims and losses can no longer be viewed as mere statistics. The declaration of a national disaster must be based on the interests of the victims, not solely on the size or number of affected areas, nor solely on regulatory considerations as stipulated in Law Number 24 of 2007 concerning Disaster Management.

We await President Prabowo's policy, as the authority rests with him. Whatever decision is taken, it will still have an impact on Prabowo now and in the future.[]

---

Aceh Bank office on Jalan Samudra, Lhokseumawe City, Aceh, Indonesia during the flood.

_{Posted using SteemX}