Jakarta - Severe flooding has engulfed Jakarta and Bekasi since early March, forcing thousands to evacuate as heavy rains and overflowing rivers wreak havoc on the region. The disaster, striking during the holy month of Ramadan, has made an already dire situation even more challenging.

Among those affected is Suryo Handoyo, a resident of Bekasi Selatan, who waded through chest-deep water with his three-month-old baby to reach safety. After receiving aid from MNC Peduli, he said, “The first thing I bought was baby formula and diapers.”

According to Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), while this year’s rainfall was not as intense as in 2020, the impact was significantly worse due to rapid urbanization and environmental changes. The mayor of Bekasi declared a 14-day state of emergency from March 4 to March 18, underscoring the severity of the crisis.

In response, MNC Peduli has stepped in to provide direct aid to affected workers, including security guards, sanitation workers, and electrical technicians whose homes were submerged. Jessica Tanoesoedibjo, Chairperson of MNC Peduli, personally oversaw the distribution of assistance, stating, “We hope this aid can help ease the burden on those struggling to recover, especially during Ramadan.”

The relief efforts include financial assistance to support victims' daily needs, offering a vital lifeline as they begin rebuilding their lives. For families like Suryo’s, this support is a beacon of hope. “We are trying to get back on our feet, one step at a time,” he said.

As Jakarta and Bekasi work toward recovery, collaborative efforts from organizations like MNC Peduli provide critical relief, helping communities navigate the aftermath of the disaster.