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| A Christian Indonesian during a worship time - EMM file photo. |
Second earthquake devastates Indonesian island: additional relief funds crucial
NIAS, Indonesia – Measuring 8.2 on the Richter scale, another massive earthquake rocked the Indonesian island of Nias, off Sumatra’s coast, on March 28, 2005. The death toll is currently at 839 and climbing, with another nearly 3,000 injured.
The island’s only airport was destroyed in the quake, so it is difficult to send emergency relief supplies. Helicopters can bring some supplies, but cannot carry large quantities. Boats are presently the best option.
Nias is over 85 percent Christian. PIPKA, the mission agency of Indonesia Muria Mennonite churches and a partner with EMM, is involved in the relief operations. Fritz Triman, chairman of PIPKA, writes, “Many people are desperate for food, and some for tents, because those who still own homes do not want to sleep inside. Tremors and quakes are still happening."
Triman continues, “We are planning to rent several wooden ships that can carry 50 to 60 tons of goods from Padang to reach Nias. Nias needs aid urgently.” He notes that the international media's attention to the effects of the earlier tsunami, particularly in Aceh, has overshadowed this latest tragedy.
Glenn Kauffman, EMM representative to Asia, says, “In Aceh PIPKA is doing development, but in Nias it is basic relief. Help has been slow to arrive, probably because of the continued focus on Aceh. Hence the urgency of PIPKA’s request to get supplies on the way as soon as possible. Frits [Triman] says that it is not normal for PIPKA to respond to this type of emergency need, but in this case they felt compelled to do so, since it is so neglected.”
EMM has approved an immediate release of $20,000 in emergency relief funds to partner with PIPKA in relief efforts; EMM is soliciting immediate donations to assist with this effort. Donations may be earmarked “Nias earthquake” and sent to EMM at:
Eastern Mennonite Missions
P.O. Box 458
Salunga, Pa. 17538-0458
Kenton Glick is EMM media producer
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