REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA – Following the Indonesian government’s declaration of an emergency, on January 18 US Ambassador Scot A Marciel offered US assistance in response to the severe flooding in and around Jakarta.
“We offer our deepest sympathies to those affected by the terrible flooding in and around Jakarta. While the situation has affected thousands of people, I have been heartened by the selfless response of so many Indonesians to assist their fellow citizens, and by the hard work and dedication of the Indonesian disaster response officials, police and military," Marciel said in a written statement.
The United States, through the US Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Office of US Foreign Disaster Assistance, will provide 150,000 USD to support the humanitarian relief efforts of the Indonesian government and assist those affected in close coordination with the Indonesian Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) and local leaders.
In cooperation with Mercy Corps, Save the Children and World Vision, the US support will be used for local procurement and distribution of emergency relief supplies, including materials for flood clean-up activities that will enable affected people to return home.
On January 17, the governor of Jakarta declared a state of emergency in the capital, which is expected to remain in effect through January 27. The BNPB is leading the response and providing temporary shelter, food, and relief items to populations residing in evacuation centers, as well as support for post-flood clean-up efforts. The US Embassy is working closely with the BNPB and Jakarta authorities to support the on-going disaster response efforts.