VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

President Joko Widodo ordered TNI Commander Marshal Hadi Tjahjanto to deploy TNI-owned helicopters as an aid to reach residents in North Lombok who were affected by the earthquake. This was conveyed after visiting the handling of the earthquake and the people affected by the earthquake on Monday in North Lombok district, West Nusa Tenggara Province. The President acknowledged that there were still some areas in North Lombok that were difficult to reach to get help. This is because of the difficulty of the terrain that must be taken in order to reach these remote areas. Even so, according to the President, military helicopters should be used so that they can distribute logistical assistance to citizens.

"We must know that especially in North Lombok and in West Lombok, the areas are very wide. So there are still a few that are not yet reachable and handled especially in Bayan and Kayangan sub-districts. There are still 1,2,3 villages that have not been reached. Because its position is leading to the top of Mount Rinjani which is not accessible by motorbikes or even cars. And indeed there are still cracks and landslides that hit homes and residents there. This is not handled yet. There are still 1,2,3 villages that require attention but indeed the terrain is above and very heavy. But I had ordered the Commander to solve the problem. Because also here 4 helicopters are standby and can also be used. But indeed the terrain is not easy," said President Joko Widodo.

Meanwhile related to sanitation issues, the President said that until now, the government has installed 90 emergency sanitation facilities. According to the President, this number will still be added to 200 which are still on their way to North Lombok. The President said that the number would continue to be added due to the high need for sanitation facilities for the affected people. The government, according to the President, will continue to calculate the needs of the earthquake affected communities so as finding out the needs and meeting their needs. (VOI/Ndy/AHM)