March 2026, Aceh, Indonesia – The Peer-to-Peer Emergency Response Team from Cruz Vermelha de Timor-Leste (CVTL) is actively supporting flood disaster response operations across the Indonesian provinces of Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra.
Representing CVTL on the ground are Cash and Voucher Assistance (CVA) Officer Mrs. Maria Pascoela and WASH Officer Mr. Orlando de Carvalho, who are working closely with partners to deliver timely and effective humanitarian assistance to flood-affected communities.
As part of the response, Mrs. Maria Pascoela facilitated a socialization session on the use of Beneficiary Cards (KPM) for affected households. This initiative is implemented under the Multipurpose Cash Assistance (MPCA) program, enabling families to access financial support and address their most urgent needs with dignity and flexibility.
“The assistance prioritizes families who have lost their homes, experienced total damage, or have no permanent source of income,” Mrs. Pascoela explained. “So far, 2,306 families across 29 villages have benefited from this program.”
The operation is being carried out in close collaboration with the Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS) and the Indonesian Red Cross in Aceh Tamiang. According to Mr. Aldo, teamwork and partnership are key to ensuring effective response efforts. “We do not work alone we work together with our colleagues to support communities affected by severe floods,” he said.
In addition to cash assistance, the teams are prioritizing public health by ensuring access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene services. This includes water management, clean water distribution, emergency sanitation facilities, and hygiene promotion activities to prevent disease outbreaks.
Both CVTL representatives expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and highlighted the importance of adaptability in humanitarian work. “We stepped out of our comfort zones, adapting to a new environment and working with new teams,” they shared. “Before coming, we were concerned about whether we would be accepted, but the reality has been very positive. Both colleagues and communities have warmly welcomed us.”
They emphasized that the spirit of humanity and the seven fundamental principles of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement especially impartiality, neutrality, and independence have guided their work throughout the mission.
The Timor-Leste Red Cross continues to play an active role in regional humanitarian efforts, strengthening solidarity and supporting disaster-affected communities.
This operation is supported by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies through its Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF).
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