BRIDS Provides Aid to Support the Post-Earthquake Recovery of East Nusa Tenggara
Jakarta, 1 October 2026 – A 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), on 15 August 2026 continues to affect local communities. In addition to damage to homes and public facilities, ongoing aftershocks have prompted some residents to remain in evacuation shelters and refrain from resuming normal activities at home.
The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) recorded more than 5,000 people displaced during the initial phase of the disaster, with 47 fatalities reported. As of 7 September 2026, a total of 51,591 houses had undergone verification and validation, representing 50.39% of the initial target of 102,384 houses across seven affected regencies. Based on the preliminary verification results, 2,382 houses were classified as severely damaged, 7,276 as moderately damaged, and 14,177 as lightly damaged. These figures remain dynamic as field verification continues.
The post-earthquake situation has also been marked by continued aftershock activity. BNPB recorded 3,002 aftershocks as of 19 August 2026, with the strongest reaching a magnitude of 6.2. BNPB also reported that some communities on Flores Island continued to stay in tents due to fear and concerns over further tremors. This situation has extended the need for basic assistance during the emergency response and recovery period.
In response, PT BRI Danareksa Sekuritas (BRIDS), in synergy with Yayasan Baitul Maal BRILiaN (YBM BRILiaN), provided emergency assistance based on a field assessment conducted in Nagekeo Regency. The assessment identified urgent needs among affected communities, particularly food assistance, support for emergency kitchens, and equipment required to support food preparation during the emergency response period.
To address these needs, BRIDS, through YBM BRILiaN, provided Rp50 million in assistance allocated for 100 basic-needs packages, emergency kitchen support, and assistance distribution and operational needs. The support is expected to benefit more than 200 people, including students, affected communities, evacuees, and others requiring assistance during the emergency response period.
BRIDS Acting President Director, Fifi Virgantria, said that the assistance provided through YBM BRILiaN reflects BRIDS’ commitment to delivering social contributions that respond to the needs of communities on the ground.
“Through BRIDS Peduli, we strive to ensure that the support we provide addresses the actual needs of affected communities. In the aftermath of a disaster, meeting basic needs is essential to help communities navigate the emergency response period and begin the recovery process. Going forward, BRIDS will continue to identify opportunities to contribute through its TJSL programs so that the benefits can be delivered in a relevant and sustainable manner to communities,” said Fifi.
The assistance forms part of BRIDS’ TJSL program through BRIDS Peduli, which is designed to provide social contributions based on community needs and conditions on the ground. Through collaboration with various stakeholders, BRIDS continues to support initiatives that deliver benefits to communities and the environment.