Indonesia Cancels New Year Fireworks to Honor Sumatra Flood Victims

Post by : Saif Nasser

Indonesia is observing a period of mourning as the country faces the aftermath of deadly floods in Sumatra. In a gesture of respect and solidarity, several regions, including Jakarta and Bali, have decided to cancel New Year fireworks celebrations this week.

The floods and landslides in North Sumatra, West Sumatra, and Aceh provinces have left over 1,100 people dead and displaced around 400,000 residents. Entire villages were swept away, and authorities are working to rebuild homes, bridges, and essential infrastructure. The estimated cost of recovery is at least $3.11 billion, according to government reports.

Prasetyo Hadi, spokesperson for President Prabowo Subianto's office, said the central government supports the regional decision to forgo fireworks. He emphasized that the move reflects national empathy and solidarity with the victims. “It is correct because we have to show empathy and solidarity ... as a nation, that there are some who suffered from a disaster,” he told reporters.

Police in Denpasar, Bali, have officially banned fireworks, and the Jakarta government has also prohibited firework displays in the capital. Residents have been urged not to light any fireworks, maintaining a respectful silence for those affected by the disaster.

Several areas in Sumatra remain in a state of emergency, with local and national authorities coordinating rescue and relief efforts. Over 20 villages were completely swept away by floodwaters, displacing thousands of people and leaving them in urgent need of shelter, food, and medical support.

The government has prioritized rebuilding essential infrastructure, including homes, roads, and bridges. Authorities are also providing aid to displaced families and working to restore normalcy in the hardest-hit regions.

By cancelling celebrations, Indonesia aims to honor the victims of this devastating natural disaster while focusing resources and attention on recovery efforts. The decision has been widely supported as a symbol of national unity and empathy during a time of tragedy.