W Sumatra Donated Rp2 Billion for Rohingya: ACT

Padang, (Antara Sumbar) - The total amount of aid from West Sumatra residents for Rohingya who are experiencing violence in Myanmar has reached more than Rp2 billion, according to Head of Branch of Provincial Aksi Cepat Tanggap (ACT), Fadli.

"The amount is from community groups, district, municipal governments and West Sumatra Provincial Government," he said in Padang on Monday (Oct 2).

He said that after receiving West Sumatra Provincial Government aid for Rohingya amounting to Rp750 million at the local governor's office.

According to him, West Sumatra Provincial Government's assistance will be collected first with other assistance, then distributed simultaneously to be more effective.

In the first phase, according to him, the assistance of 2,000 tons of rice from West Sumatra has been distributed by ACT for Rohingya ethnic in Myanmar and refugees in Bangladesh.

Distribution is done by sea route with estimated travel for ten days.

Meanwhile, Deputy Governor of West Sumatra, Nasrul Abit hoped the assistance of Rp750 million was not the only one, but there will be another phase II assistance.

"The account of West Sumatera Peduli Rohingya with number of 2101.0210.05697-2 at Bank Nagari is still open, hopefully there is additional assistance," he said.

The assistance provided is expected for emergency response in the form of foodstuffs and other urgent needs. However, if ACT believes that other forms of assistance are urgently needed, the Provincial Government shall pass a decision on ACT. (cha)

Editor: Vicha Faradika