Minister of Home Affairs Distributes Aid to Flood Victims in Bale Panah Juli.
As a token of the central government's concern and presence for the victims of the hydro-meteorological disaster, Minister of Home Affairs Muhammad Tito Karnavian handed over aid to displaced residents in Bale Panah Village, Juli District, on Saturday afternoon (February 21, 2026).
The symbolic handover was attended by the Deputy Governor of Aceh, Fadhullah, and the Regent of Bireuen, H. Mukhlis; the Mayor of Lhokseumawe, Sayuti Abubakar; and the Head of the Aceh Regional Task Force, Safrizal ZA, and other relevant officials.
The Regent of Bireuen Regency, H. Mukhlis, stated in his remarks that Minister of Home Affairs Muhammad Tito Karnavian's presence today among the displaced residents was deeply meaningful.
"This is a symbol of the state's true presence. The Minister's presence provides a sense of security and optimism to our residents, that they are not alone in facing this ordeal," said the Regent.
To the evacuees in Balee Panah, the Minister of Home Affairs' visit today brought significant aid and moral support. "I hope this assistance can ease your burden. Let us remain patient and help each other at this post while the government strives for the best recovery measures," he said.
In his remarks, Minister of Home Affairs Muhammad Tito Karnavian stated that he had visited Aceh several times since the flash floods and landslides occurred.
Three provinces were affected by this disaster: North Sumatra, with 16 regencies/cities, of which only five remain under post-disaster management.
Furthermore, in West Sumatra, with 16 regencies/cities affected, three remain under post-disaster management. In Aceh, with 18 regencies/cities, eight remain under the Minister's attention.
The results of his visit revealed that the main problem faced by the community was not only damaged houses; the floods also brought mud that buried homes, public facilities, and the environment, requiring further action.
The former National Police Chief was present today to oversee the construction of the new Kutablang Bridge, targeted for completion in July 2026. Once completed, the bridge will be passable by two-lane vehicles.
"I came to encourage the disaster-affected community. I've been in Aceh Tamiang since the first day of Ramadan. My presence demonstrates that the central government is not standing idly by; we will resolve the issues that have arisen. I'm here to see and hear what issues are being addressed by the Regent and Mayor," said the Minister of Home Affairs.
Furthermore, he came to provide assistance as a token of appreciation from the central government. "Here at Bale Panah, there are 83 families, and we've provided them with prayer equipment, clothing, rice, and even a Quran as a waqf from President Prabowo," he said.
The distribution of the remaining aid packages to flood victims will be managed by the Regent. "We all pray that the post-disaster issues can be resolved. I hope the community will remain strong and patient," the Minister of Home Affairs concluded.
