The flash floods that recently struck several regions across Sumatra, particularly in North Sumatra and West Sumatra, have brought about significant devastation and widespread impact on local communities. This catastrophic event has not only claimed lives but also resulted in extensive damage to residential properties and the loss of invaluable personal belongings for countless families.
Responding swiftly to the urgent needs of the affected populations, Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI), through its dedicated corporate social responsibility (CSR) program, BRI Peduli, has rapidly mobilized to distribute crucial disaster relief assistance. This initiative underscores BRI’s unwavering commitment to its social responsibilities in times of crisis.
BRI President Director, Hery Gunardi, conveyed his profound sympathy and concern for the communities grappling with the aftermath of the floods across Sumatra. “Through the BRI Peduli program, we consistently play an active role in providing support to communities affected by disasters in various regions, and this commitment extends fully to the recent floods in North Sumatra and West Sumatra,” Hery stated in a written declaration on Wednesday (December 3).
Furthermore, BRI is actively fostering collaboration and coordination with various stakeholders to synergize efforts in distributing aid to disaster victims. This strategic partnership aims to alleviate the burden on the affected communities and accelerate the crucial process of post-disaster recovery. Hery reiterated, “We are committed to continuously acting promptly and efficiently in delivering diverse assistance to affected residents, thereby helping to expedite their recovery post-disaster.”
In North Sumatra, the comprehensive aid package distributed by BRI Peduli includes thousands of ready-to-eat food packages, essential staples, vital medicines, clothing, warm blankets, comfortable mattresses, crucial baby supplies, mineral water, and other pressing necessities. The distribution was carried out directly by dedicated BRI employees through the closest operational units in the disaster-stricken areas, encompassing regions such as Sibolga, Tarutung, Padangsidimpuan, Stabat, Gunung Sitoli, and Binjai.
Meanwhile, in West Sumatra, BRI Peduli significantly boosted evacuation capabilities by supplying one rubber boat along with essential life jackets to the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) disaster post in Padang City. Complementing this critical support, thousands of instant food packages, basic necessities, medicines, mattresses, baby supplies, and mineral water were also distributed. These provisions were specifically allocated for residents in key areas including Padang City, Solok, Padang Panjang, Pariaman, Painan, Bukittinggi, and Simpang Empat.
The direct delivery of this vital assistance was meticulously managed by the “Tim Elang Relawan BRI” (BRI Volunteer Eagle Team) alongside BRI employees from nearby work units. This hands-on approach ensures that aid reaches its intended recipients effectively, precisely meeting the immediate needs of the affected citizens.
Currently, BRI is diligently undertaking the monitoring and inventory of its assets and work units situated within the disaster-impacted zones. The institution is committed to ensuring that banking services in these areas can swiftly return to normal operations. Additionally, BRI is actively preparing nearby work units that were unaffected by the disaster to provide crucial banking services, thus facilitating the gradual recovery of economic activities in the region.
Summary
Flash floods recently caused significant devastation in North Sumatra and West Sumatra, leading to loss of lives and extensive property damage. Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI), through its corporate social responsibility program BRI Peduli, swiftly mobilized to distribute crucial disaster relief assistance. BRI President Director Hery Gunardi expressed profound sympathy, affirming the bank’s commitment to actively support affected communities and collaborate with stakeholders to accelerate recovery.
Specifically, BRI Peduli distributed thousands of ready-to-eat food packages, essential staples, medicines, clothing, and baby supplies in North Sumatra. In West Sumatra, aid included a rubber boat and life jackets for the BPBD, along with thousands of instant food packages and basic necessities. This vital assistance was delivered directly by BRI employees and volunteers, and BRI is also working to restore banking services and facilitate economic recovery in the affected regions.
