Indonesian Red Cross to distribute 1 million masks after Anak Krakatau eruption

The Indonesian Red Cross, known as PMI, will distribute one million masks to people affected by the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau, Chairman Jusuf Kalla said.

Kalla spoke after a meeting with PMI’s central leadership in South Jakarta on Monday about disaster responses across Indonesia. He said the country had faced a succession of emergencies, including flooding in Sumatra, drought, an earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, forest fires and the Anak Krakatau eruption.

“For Krakatau, we will distribute one million masks. What people there need most is masks,” Kalla said. PMI will also provide public education on steps to deal with disasters and reduce the risks they pose.

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For Krakatau, we will distribute one million masks. What people there need most is masks.

The organization’s humanitarian operation in East Nusa Tenggara remains active, with a focus on basic needs, education and health. PMI is helping schools and hospitals and preparing emergency classrooms. Kalla said the next phase would support government recovery and reconstruction, including rebuilding damaged homes and facilities.

PMI is also operating more than 100 water tankers to supply communities facing drought in Java, Sulawesi, East Nusa Tenggara and West Nusa Tenggara. Kalla said he hoped the joint response by PMI, the government and local communities would meet affected residents’ needs quickly.

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It is still operating in East Nusa Tenggara, for schools and hospitals, preparing emergency classrooms.