Indonesian Government Allocates Rp596 Million to Support Madrasahs Affected by West Java Disasters
Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs has disbursed Rp596 million (approximately US$35,500) in assistance to support the recovery of madrasahs (Islamic schools), teachers, and students impacted by landslides and flooding in the Cisarua Sub-district of West Bandung, West Java.
Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar said in a statement issued in Jakarta on Sunday that madrasahs play a strategic role not only as centers of education but also as pillars of community service and humanitarian response, particularly during times of crisis.
He emphasized that the restoration of madrasahs and the protection of teachers’ welfare must be a shared priority to ensure the continuity of teaching and learning activities. According to the minister, madrasahs have consistently contributed to humanitarian efforts, even amid emergencies.
“Madrasahs have contributed greatly. Even during emergencies, they remain a vital part of humanitarian efforts. Therefore, the state must ensure that madrasahs and their teachers can recover,” Umar said.
The assistance package includes Rp300 million in rehabilitation funds to repair the severely damaged homes of madrasah teachers affected by the disaster. Additionally, Rp126 million has been allocated for rental assistance to support 21 teachers in securing decent temporary housing during the recovery period.
The ministry has also provided Rp160 million in compensation to the families of 10 madrasah students who lost their lives in the disaster, along with Rp10 million in burial assistance. Umar noted that ensuring proper and dignified burials is an essential part of honoring the victims and fulfilling humanitarian obligations.
He added that the aid represents an initial response, stressing that both central and regional officials have been instructed to continue providing support. Further assessments will be carried out to identify additional needs of affected madrasahs and families as the recovery process continues.
