RRI.CO.ID, Ternate - The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has shifted its strategic focus toward the furthest reaches of the North Maluku archipelago to ensure aid equity following the powerful magnitude 7.6 earthquake that struck on April 2.

Over the next two weeks, emergency efforts will concentrate on securing the logistics chain for isolated communities in Mayau and Tifure Island, ensuring that the geographical distance does not hinder the delivery of essential supplies.

"We have coordinated the deployment of the National Search and Rescue Agency Ship (KN) SAR to support logistics distribution. In addition, trauma healing assistance for earthquake-affected residents is being provided by the Social Affairs Agency, supported by the Indonesian Military and the National Police," Director of Regional Management I at BNPB, Agus Riyanto, said during a coordination meeting in Ternate on Sunday, April 5, 2026.

He further affirmed that the central government is fully committed to supporting the emergency response period in North Maluku throughout the recovery process.

The urgency of this integrated response was earlier highlighted by the North Maluku Deputy Governor, Sarbin Sehe, who emphasized the need for rapid action across the expansive impact zone. The earthquake's reach was extensive, affecting four regencies and two cities, spanning 27 subdistricts and 46 villages.

As reported by Antara, the impact was felt most broadly in Ternate and Tidore, with 15 villages affected in each city. This was followed by significant disruptions in West Halmahera, North Halmahera, Central Halmahera, and South Halmahera.

Based on preliminary data gathered by field teams, the Deputy Governor provided an update on the human cost of the disaster, noting a fortunate lack of fatalities. Currently, there are no reported deaths, though one individual is being treated for minor injuries.

However, the displacement remains significant, with approximately 2,000 people affected and 1,107 individuals, or 113 families, still seeking shelter in designated evacuation centers.

The physical toll on the region's infrastructure is substantial, with a total of 304 residential units damaged. Initial assessments categorize 99 homes as heavily damaged, 66 as moderately damaged, and 139 as having sustained light damage.

BNPB has assured the public that the mechanism for repairing homes damaged by natural disasters or social conflict will be processed strictly in accordance with prevailing laws and regulations. The high-level coordination concluded with a joint pledge from all government agencies to remain operational and continue serving the community despite the ongoing national holiday. ***