Bireuen/Tribuneindonesia.com
The United Development Party (Partai Persatuan Pembangunan/PPP) has reaffirmed that its involvement in responding to the impact of floods in Aceh represents a moral responsibility and a manifestation of national solidarity with communities affected by the disaster.
The Chairman of the Central Executive Board (DPP) of PPP, Muhamad Mardiono, stated that the commemoration of the party’s 53rd anniversary (Harlah) in Bireuen Regency was deliberately framed as a moment of genuine concern rather than a ceremonial occasion. According to him, the presence of a political party must be felt directly by the people, particularly during times of humanitarian crisis.
Mardiono emphasised that the anniversary was not limited to collective prayers, but was translated into concrete humanitarian action in support of communities affected by the floods in Aceh.
As part of this commitment, the DPP of PPP distributed humanitarian assistance sent directly from Jakarta, which has since arrived in Aceh. The aid included rice, cooking oil, instant noodles, sugar, sarongs, prayer garments, milk for infants and children, soap, and other essential basic necessities. Mardiono expressed hope that this assistance would help ease the burden of communities striving to rebuild their lives in the aftermath of the disaster.
In addition to logistical aid, PPP also deployed approximately 200 volunteers, assigned in rotating shifts to assist with environmental clean-up efforts and minor repairs to damaged homes. This initiative was viewed as part of a broader social recovery process that places humanitarian considerations at its core.
Within the Aceh context, particular attention has been drawn to the role of the Chairman of PPP Aceh Regional Executive Council (DPW PPP Aceh), Dr H. Amiruddin Idris, S.E., M.Si. Amiruddin Idris, who also serves as a member of the Aceh Regional Parliament for the 2024–2029 term representing Electoral District III (Bireuen), is widely recognised as an academic, a patron of the UNIKI Foundation, and an advocate for education. He has consistently championed access to scholarships for underprivileged students and individuals affected by past conflicts.
When floods, landslides, and mudflows struck several regions across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra, Amiruddin Idris was recorded as being actively involved in various humanitarian assistance efforts, particularly in the areas of Aceh that suffered the most severe impact.
Responding to these efforts, the Chairman of Relawan Peduli Rakyat Lintas Batas (Volunteers Caring for the People Across Borders), Arizal Mahdi, stated that the actions and stance demonstrated by Amiruddin Idris reflected the exemplary conduct of a public representative who places humanity above all other interests.
According to Arizal Mahdi, Amiruddin Idris deserves to serve as a role model for other members of parliament, as his presence among affected communities during times of disaster illustrates the true essence of public service—being present to serve, not merely to represent within formal corridors of power.
Arizal Mahdi further emphasised that strong synergy between political parties, volunteer organisations, and civil society is essential to ensure that post-disaster recovery efforts are effective and sustainable, without narratives that divide society or politicise the suffering of the people.
Overall, PPP underscored that disasters must serve as a moment to strengthen solidarity, empathy, and national unity, rather than becoming a space for narrow interests. An inclusive humanitarian approach is regarded as a fundamental foundation for building public trust and accelerating the recovery of affected communities.
