WEB DESK: In the wake of devastating floods across Southeast Asia, Indonesia has provided a preliminary estimate for recovery funds to address the destruction caused by deadly cyclones, which claimed nearly a thousand lives and displaced hundreds more.
Indonesian government officials reported that Sumatra Island alone will require 51.82 trillion rupiah (approximately $3.11 billion) for reconstruction and recovery efforts.
Official data additionally indicates that the storms resulted in around 200 fatalities in southern Thailand and Malaysia.
Suharyanto, the head of Indonesia’s National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB), stated that the required recovery funds across the three affected provinces—Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra—could rise further as ongoing assessments evaluate the extent of the damage.
Among the hardest-hit areas, Aceh is expected to need 25.41 trillion rupiah, the largest share of the funds. Suharyanto shared this update during a cabinet meeting hosted by President Prabowo Subianto in Aceh province on Sunday, December 7, 2025.
North Sumatra and West Sumatra have also suffered substantial damages, with estimated reconstruction costs amounting to 12.88 trillion rupiah and 13.52 trillion rupiah, respectively, Suharyanto noted.
Progress has already been made in parts of North Sumatra and West Sumatra, where recovery is underway, paving the way for reconstruction efforts to begin in these relatively stable areas. Suharyanto explained plans to relocate evacuees from shelters to temporary housing, although no specific timeline was provided.
These temporary homes, constructed by the government, are 40-square-metre plywood structures designed to provide immediate relief for displaced residents. In subsequent phases, occupants will be moved into permanent homes built by the housing ministry.
Addressing the preliminary recovery estimates, President Prabowo remarked that his figures were largely aligned with those presented by BNPB officials but did not confirm whether funding allocation had been approved. He emphasized a committed approach to handling the crisis effectively and thoroughly.
Prabowo also acknowledged that some areas remain in critical condition, with extensive damage reported to rice fields, dams, and a significant number of homes. Local leaders have indicated that rebuilding destroyed homes will be a key area of focus.
The president further highlighted ongoing challenges in certain regions, underlining the urgent need for distributing medication and clothing to support those still grappling with the aftermath of the disaster.
