Updated: Human Initiative Response to Floods and Landslides in Sumatra

Floods and landslides that struck Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra since late November 2025 have caused severe impacts on the affected communities. More than 1.1 million people have been displaced after their homes were damaged or buried under up to two meters of mud and debris. As of 4 December 2025, official data records 812 fatalities, 509 people missing, and over 2,700 injured. Infrastructure damage is extensive, affecting more than 10,500 houses, hundreds of public facilities, and nearly 300 bridges. Although floodwaters have begun to recede in several areas, most residents remain unable to return home due to hazardous conditions. Access routes to many affected areas were initially cut off before gradually reopening via air and limited land transport.

Human Initiative Response and Urgent Needs on the Ground

Human Initiative has been responding since the first day the disaster was reported. The Emergency Response Team, together with local volunteers, BPBD, and local authorities, conducted evacuations and supported ongoing Search and Rescue (SAR) operations. Water stations and public kitchens were established in Pidie Jaya, North Aceh, Bireuen, Agam, and Padang to help meet the immediate food needs of survivors. Human Initiative also distributed ready-to-eat meals, snacks, and food packages in Pidie Jaya, Agam, Padang, Langkat, and Medan. Rapid assessments continue to be carried out to identify priority needs, which currently include ready-to-eat food, clean water, hygiene kits, baby kits, and expanded logistics support for areas that remain difficult to access.

In the coming days, Human Initiative will broaden its response to reach Aceh Tengah, Aceh Tamiang, Gayo Lues, Langkat, Sibolga, South Tapanuli, Solok, Pesisir Selatan, and Maninjau. Additional logistics shipments from Jakarta to Banda Aceh are also being prepared to strengthen field operations.

Support for affected families can be sent through human-initiative.jp. Every contribution makes a meaningful difference for families working to rebuild their lives.