KBRN, Jakarta: The Indonesian Ministry of Health has confirmed that 31 hospitals affected by the recent disaster in Aceh have resumed operations within two weeks of the event. Recovery efforts have focused on the rapid revitalization of healthcare services, prioritizing crucial care essential to patient safety.

"The priority is that they are operational. While the reopening is gradual, life-saving services must function," said Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin during a press briefing in Jakarta on Thursday, December 25, 2025.

Minister Budi explained that the decision to prioritize hospital recovery was made following his direct inspection of the damaged sites. The government aims for 31 affected hospitals across Aceh, West Sumatra, and North Sumatra to continue providing services, even if conditions are not yet ideal.

"The ER (Emergency Room) and dialysis services must not stop. Thank God, all HD (Hemodialysis) services are now back in operation," remarked Minister Budi.

He added that even hospitals with the most severe damage are now able to treat patients following the installation of temporary facilities. Minister Budi expressed his appreciation for the swift efforts of volunteers and hospital management in accelerating the post-disaster recovery of health services.

"Damage to healthcare facilities is complex, ranging from the physical buildings to the WWTP (Wastewater Treatment Plants). Therefore, handling must be expedited in collaboration with state-owned construction enterprises," said Minister Budi.

Meanwhile, the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) reported that the death toll from floods and landslides in North Sumatra, West Sumatra, and Aceh had risen to 1,112 as of Tuesday, December 23, 2025. The number of fatalities continues to climb as disaster conditions worsen.

"The death toll has increased by six. On behalf of this event, the central government, regional administrations, and all parties involved in recovery operations express our deepest sympathy and condolences," said Abdul Muhari, Head of BNPB Disaster Data, Information, and Communication Center.

He added that the number of missing persons has also increased. To date, 176 people are still reported missing, an increase of one from the previous report.

"The search process for missing victims continues with joint teams on the ground. We ensure that search and rescue efforts for disaster victims are ongoing, utilizing personnel and equipment suited to the field conditions," concluded Abdul Muhari. (Annaila Azzahra/Sri Wahyuni)