Jakarta, Infopublik - The Indonesian Military (TNI) is sending 12.9 tons of humanitarian assistance comprising food and beverage supplies as well as items such as platoon tents, squad tents, towels, and blankets, to victims of Tropical Storm Harold which battered Fiji last April.

The departure ceremony for the humanitarian assistance from the Government of Indonesia to the Government of the Republic of Fiji was led by TNI Commander Marshal Hadi Tjahjanto at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base, East Jakarta, Tuesday (12 May).

The TNI Commander stated that the humanitarian assistance shows the close relations between the two countries and are expected to ease the burden of the people of Fiji.

On 8 April, Cyclone Harold hit the countries in the South Pacific. The tropical cyclone that formed in the southern Pacific Ocean has caused widespread destruction in Vanuatu, Fiji, and the Solomon Islands.

The Cyclone Harold that slammed Fiji a month ago is a Category 5 cyclone with wind speed reaching 200 kilometers per hour. It has leveled buildings, homes, and caused flooding in some areas. It also cut off electricity and communication facilities. This disaster certainly added to Fiji's difficulties amidst the Covid-19 pandemic which also hit the South Pacific countries.

Despite experiencing a hardship due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Indonesia’s humanitarian spirits in providing assistance to the people of Fiji who are experiencing multiple disasters are not diminished. The 12.9 tons of humanitarian aid for the people of Fiji is from the government and all Indonesians.

The Humanitarian aid will be deployed using Indonesian Air Force’s Hercules C130 A1318 series on Wednesday, 13 May and are expected to arrive in Fiji on Thursday, 14 May at 22:00 local time.

On Friday, 15 May, the aircraft is planned to fly back to Indonesia carrying 29 Indonesian citizens from Fiji. They will be conducting Covid-19 Rapid Test before leaving and will undergo a health protocol upon arrival in Indonesia.

Reporter: Yudi Rahmat

Translator: Siti Chodijah