TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Bank Indonesia's (BI) executive director for communication Agusman Zainal said the central bank's representative office in Central Sulawesi is still operating normally following the earthquake and tsunami that hit Palu and Donggala. He also ensured that there is enough rupiah for the people in affected areas and their surroundings.
Through a written statement on Monday, October 1, Agusman said BI will remain in operation for cash and non-cash services. He added that the central bank will monitor all developments to ensure that their activities can run in the aftermath of the disaster.
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"The entire board of directors and employees of Bank Indonesia would like to convey our condolences for the tragedy in Central Sulawesi, and pray for the safety and strength of those who are affected," he said.
He said BI will coordinate with other banks and institutions to ensure transaction facilities and services are available and safe. He made sure that there is enough cash to serve the public need.
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"Bank Indonesia will also continue to support government efforts to restore the impacted areas," he remarked.
An earthquake measuring 7.4 on the Richter scale shook Palu city and Donggala regency on Friday, September 28. The earthquake also caused a tsunami, with waves up to 1.5 meters crashing coastal areas. To date, nearly 1,000 lives are reported to have been lost.
MUHAMMAD HENDARTYO