PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (BNI) distributed humanitarian aid to communities affected by the earthquake that struck several areas in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). The assistance focused on meeting the basic needs of the affected population—particularly displaced persons—during the emergency response period.
BNI Corporate Secretary Okki Rushartomo stated that BNI, together with local governments, the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), and relevant stakeholders, has identified the needs in several affected areas to serve as the basis for distributing aid.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the victims' families and share our concern regarding the tragedy affecting the community. Amidst the emergency response, BNI is stepping in to help meet the most urgent needs so that the affected communities can immediately feel the impact of this support,” said Okki in a written statement.
In the initial stage, BNI, through the BNI Berbagi program, distributed aid for basic needs in the form of mineral water, rice, instant noodles, eggs, cooking oil, milk, biscuits, baby diapers and kitchen utensils. Aid was distributed in stages to a number of areas, including Ende, Borong, Labuan Bajo, Maumere and Ruteng, to support meeting the consumption needs of refugees and affected communities.
“This distribution represents the initial phase of BNI’s assistance. We will continue to monitor the situation and coordinate with local governments and the BPBD to determine the follow-up support most needed by the communities,” said Okki.
According to Okki, the distribution of aid did not stop at the initial stage. BNI will continue to provide aid in phases, based on priority needs in the affected areas.
“We will continue to distribute aid in stages, adjusting to the evolving needs on the ground. BNI will remain actively involved and coordinate with local governments and the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) to support the communities throughout the emergency response period and into the recovery process,” said Okki.
BNI’s support is part of a collaborative effort by the broader family of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) under the coordination of Danantara Indonesia to support a rapid, measured, and targeted response to the impact of disasters.
Banking Operations and Services Continue To Run
In addition to distributing humanitarian aid, BNI ensures that banking services in the affected areas continue to operate smoothly while prioritizing the safety of employees and customers.
Of the 25 BNI branches in the Ende and Maumere areas, 24 remain open. One branch—the Borong Branch Office—is temporarily closed due to cracks in the building that require repairs. Of the 67 ATMs in the area, 65 remain operational, while the two ATMs at the Borong Branch Office are temporarily out of service.
As part of its business continuity plan, BNI has set up an O-Branch or mobile service to handle transactions for customers of the Borong KCP during the repair process. Customers can also continue to access services through BNI’s other branch network as well as electronic and digital channels.
“The safety of our employees and customers is our top priority. With the support of our branch network, O-Branch, and electronic and digital channels, we ensure that the public’s banking needs continue to be met throughout the recovery process,” explained Okki.
Operations at the Borong Branch Office will return to normal once the building has been deemed safe and ready for use again.
“BNI will continue to coordinate with local governments and all stakeholders to support post-disaster recovery efforts. We hope that conditions in the affected areas will recover soon and that the community can resume their normal activities,” Okki concluded.