NTT Governor Asks Stores to Distribute Goods to Earthquake Victims

Governor Melki Laka Lena of East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) has called on supermarkets and stores in the disaster-stricken Flores region to distribute essential goods to earthquake victims. This initiative aims to meet the immediate needs of those affected while official aid is being organized.

Governor Lena stated that the Flores disaster has garnered the attention of President Prabowo Subianto, who has directed several ministers to visit the affected areas. Speaking at a press conference at the NTT Regional Police Headquarters on Saturday, August 15, Lena announced, "I have asked that supermarkets in the disaster areas distribute food to the victims, and the government will provide reimbursement, while awaiting aid distribution."

The NTT Provincial Government has also been instructed to expedite data verification to ensure timely aid delivery. The immediate focus remains on evacuating victims to safer locations. A review of the disaster sites in Maumere and other parts of Flores was planned for later that day, utilizing a Polri aircraft.

The magnitude 7 earthquake that struck Flores on Saturday morning resulted in six confirmed deaths and two injuries, according to preliminary data compiled by the Manggarai Regency Disaster Post. One of the injured sustained severe wounds, while the other had minor injuries. The identified victims include Stefanus Jedaut, Fabian Evita Jas, Resny, the couple Manus and Yul, and one unidentified individual.