Editor’s note
- Government of North Sumatra accelerates resettlement of disaster refugees from tents to temporary housing
- Temporary shelter for disaster-stricken communities
- Financial assistance while awaiting shelter
Government of North Sumatra accelerates resettlement of disaster refugees from tents to temporary housing
As Eid al-Fitr 2026 approaches, the number of refugees resulting from natural disasters in North Sumatra is expected to decrease drastically. The Provincial Government of North Sumatra continues to accelerate the reception of refugees to achieve the goal of zero refugees in tents.
This was communicated by Basarin Yunus Tanjung, Assistant for Government and Public Welfare, in Medan. “Some refugees have already moved to temporary housing (Huntara), and thousands of others are ready to be housed. Construction of the Huntara is 90 percent complete in total. We hope that no refugees will be staying in tents before Eid al-Fitr,” said Basarin.
The provincial government of North Sumatra has also called upon all parties to continue working together to accelerate the relocation of refugees from tents to temporary housing. According to Basarin, this acceleration requires support and cooperation from various parties.
Temporary housing for disaster-stricken communities
Previously, several temporary housing units (Huntara) had already been put into use by disaster-stricken communities. At the Simarpinggan football field in South Angkola District, 186 units were available; in the hamlet of Aek Latong, Marsada village, Sipirok district, 118 units were available; at PTPN IV Regional I Section III Kebun Batang Toru, Napa village, 129 units were available; In Adiankoting, 40 units were available; in the Pinangsori Hajj dormitory, 52 units were available; on the Balerong Pasar Tukka site, 12 units were available; and on the Pandan Rusunawa site, 90 units were available.
Meanwhile, several other temporary housing projects are under development. “For South Tapanuli, the hope is that the temporary housing units will be ready on March 15. The temporary housing units will not be ready until March 15,” Basarin explained.
Housing Assistance
In addition to temporary housing, evacuees also receive a Housing Waiting Allowance (DTH). This assistance is intended for refugees who choose not to live in temporary reception centers.
“The payment of the DTH has already started and will continue based on the completeness of the BNBA documents (name and address),” he explained. ***rel
