Indonesia Considers President's Visit to Quake-Hit NTT Amid Ongoing Disaster Response

Indonesia's President Prabowo Subianto may soon visit the East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) region, which was recently struck by a powerful earthquake. The decision hinges on the evolving situation on the ground, according to Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi.

"We'll take into account the situation. The ministers are already there. We'll see what happens, then we'll decide," Prasetyo stated from Jakarta. He confirmed that the President has directed his aides to prioritize reaching the affected areas. Several ministers were notably absent from Indonesia's 81st Independence Day ceremony to focus on the disaster response in NTT.

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We'll take into account the situation. The ministers are already there. We'll see what happens, then we'll decide.

These ministers include the Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Cultural Affairs, the Minister of Home Affairs, the Minister of Public Works, the Deputy Minister of Health, and the Deputy Minister of Social Affairs. Their presence in NTT is to monitor the situation and oversee mitigation measures following the disaster.

The 7.7 magnitude earthquake, which occurred on August 15, 2026, at a depth of 15 kilometers, has claimed over 50 lives and caused widespread damage to homes, infrastructure, and public facilities. Despite the ongoing national celebration of Independence Day, Prasetyo Hadi assured that the government is ensuring adequate care for the earthquake victims.

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While we are celebrating independence, of course, on the other hand, we must make sure that those affected by the disaster are properly cared for.