KBRN, Jakarta: Indonesia maintains that it possesses sufficient capacity to manage the massive floods and landslides currently gripping Sumatra, stating that external assistance from partner countries is not yet required. This assertion underscores the nation’s confidence in its internal disaster management capabilities despite the severe toll taken by the recent catastrophe.

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono acknowledged and thanked friendly nations for their offers of aid, which he noted reflects their concern for the situation in Indonesia.

"We are currently finalizing everything that is needed, but indeed there are some who have offered [aid]. We also express our gratitude for their concern, but we believe we can still handle this," said Sugiono, speaking at the Pancasila Building in Jakarta on Friday, December 5, 2025, after the handover of Foreign Ministry aid for Sumatra flood victims, as quoted by Antara.

While declining to specify which countries had extended offers, the Foreign Minister shared that Indonesia's friends were ready to assist with whatever was necessary.

"Everyone said, if, for example, anything is needed, let us know," he remarked.

Minister Sugiono said that the window for accepting foreign aid would only be opened if Indonesia felt overwhelmed in managing the floods in the northern part of Sumatra Island.

“But I believe, with all the existing strength, and this being a joint effort, I am confident that we can resolve this problem,” Sugiono affirmed.

This sentiment was echoed earlier on Wednesday, December 4 by Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi, who confirmed that Indonesia was still capable of overcoming the disaster in Sumatra and had adequate food supplies for the victims.

"For now, not yet (opening the opportunity for aid). Although we also, representing the Government of the Republic of Indonesia, express our gratitude because there has been so much attention from friendly countries," Minister Prasetyo said regarding the possibility of international assistance entering Sumatra Island.

He added that in addition to having sufficient food stocks, Indonesia was also still able to ensure the supply of fuel (BBM) in the affected areas, although distribution mechanisms required adjustments.

According to the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) data released up to Friday afternoon, the death toll from the floods and landslides in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra since last week has reached 893 fatalities. Furthermore, 521 people remain missing, and more than 4,200 have suffered injuries. ***