Indonesian Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka met with a group of volunteers in North Sulawesi, where they expressed their pride in the opportunity to speak with him during his visit to the region. The visit, which took place on Tuesday, is part of the government's efforts to enhance development and assist in reconstruction after the devastating earthquake that struck the area.
The head of the Solidaritas Merah Putih association in North Sulawesi, James Kamaling, reported that the dialogue with the Vice President was brief but fruitful. The Vice President emphasized the importance of achieving balanced development across Indonesia, not just on the island of Java. This message reflects the government's commitment to directing resources toward areas that require greater support.
Event Details
The Vice President arrived in the city of Manado in North Sulawesi on Monday evening, where he was welcomed by the regional governor, Julius Sylvanus, and the deputy governor Victor Milangkai. The visit aimed to assess the damage caused by the earthquake, which registered a magnitude of 7.6 and occurred on April 2, 2026.
During the visit, the Vice President met with the families of victims who lost their lives due to the earthquake, including the family of Deji Lahia, who lost a member under the rubble of the KONI Sario building in Manado. He also visited the Bunda Hati Kudus Yesus church in the village of Romingkor, where he inspected the damage to the building.
Background & Context
Historically, Indonesia has experienced numerous natural disasters, including earthquakes and tsunamis, making government efforts in reconstruction and development vital. The recent earthquake in North Sulawesi highlights the urgent need to strengthen infrastructure in remote areas, where these regions suffer from a lack of resources and basic services.
The swift response from the government, including the Vice President's visit, reflects the government's commitment to promoting sustainable development across the country. Official visits by government officials also enhance the spirit of solidarity between the government and citizens, helping to build trust and foster cooperation.
Impact & Consequences
The Vice President's visit to North Sulawesi is a significant step in promoting sustainable development in the earthquake-affected areas. This visit may lead to increased government support for development projects in the region, contributing to improving the living conditions of local residents.
Furthermore, the dialogue with volunteers reflects the importance of civil society's involvement in relief and reconstruction efforts. This collaboration between the government and the community can contribute to achieving better outcomes in the future, as citizens are empowered to participate in the development process.
Regional Significance
Although this event pertains to Indonesia, it underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing natural disasters. Arab countries, facing similar challenges, can benefit from Indonesia's experiences in promoting sustainable development and rapid disaster response.
This event also reflects the significance of solidarity and cooperation between governments and local communities, a lesson that can be applied in many Arab countries striving to improve their economic and social conditions.