TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Muhadjir Effendy said the death toll from the Turkey-Syria earthquake had reached 36,217 people; 31,643 in Turkey and 4,574 in Syria, while the number of injured victims nearly hit 200,000.

“Two Indonesian citizens died in [the earthquake in] Turkey. Meanwhile, 123 people have been evacuated and are now placed in the Indonesian Embassy in Ankara,” Muhadjir said after meeting with President Jokowi at the State Palace, Central Jakarta, Tuesday, February 14, 2023.

Muhadjir and the Head of the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) Lt. Gen. Suharyanto reported the data to the President who asked them to coordinate the sending of human assistance in two batches to the affected regions.

Muhadjir said the first flight group had departed on February 11, and the second group departed on February 13, 2023. At least 62 personnel and supporting equipment were deployed in the first group, and 181 personnel including healthcare professionals will be mobilized in the second flight to help with the search and rescue process.

“For the first flight, orthopedic doctors and orthopedic surgeons are especially needed, and in the future, inshallah, after the first team is withdrawn, we will send the second group, possibly specialist doctors and nurses, medical personnel who handle infectious diseases,” Muhadjir said.

Apart from sending human assistance, Muhadjir said Jokowi also ordered the delivery of logistical assistance which will depart on February 20. In total, there would be 4 planes carrying food and logistical aid.

“The BNPB head knows the exact amount of assistance, but what is clear is that it is a lot. The President also agreed that there will be cash, non-material assistance,” Muhadjir explained.

Regarding the two Indonesian victims, Muhadjir claimed he has not yet received information from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on whether the two would be returned home or buried there. However, Muhadjir said his side would consult with Social Minister Tri Risma Harini about compensation for the victims’ families.

As for the 123 Indonesian citizens in refugees, Muhadjir said they are being accommodated at the Indonesian Embassy in Ankara which was considered safe as it was located far from the epicenter of the earthquake. “I don't think there has been a decision yet whether they should return to Indonesia or stay in Turkey,” said Muhadjir Effendy.

M JULNIS FIRMANSYAH

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