Aceh Tsunami Ten Years On

Australian Charge d’Affaires to Indonesia, Dr. David Engel will attend the 10th Aceh and Nias tsunami commemoration in Aceh.

Dr. Engel joins senior representatives from Indonesia and other international delegation to commemorate and mark the revival of Acehnese reconstruction after the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami.

Following the destruction of the 2004 tsunami, Australia contributed significantly to Aceh’s recovery, rebuilding infrastructure and assisting the people of Aceh to rebuild their lives.

Within days of the disaster the Australian Government announced a $1 billion assistance package.

“Aceh has improved immensely after a major disaster a decade ago. Development took place in all aspects including the economy, education and health,” said Dr. Engel.

“The development challenge is our priority and the Australian Government will continue to work together with Acehnese people and the Indonesian Government to overcome these challenges.”

The Australian Government through various aid programs helped reconstruct schools, village halls and health facilities. It helped to rebuild livelihoods and helped many Acehnese to develop skills to improve government service delivery.

During his trip in Aceh, Dr. Engel will pay his respects to the tsunami victims in the Siron mass grave and visit the ‘Thanks to the World’ exhibition.

Media Enquiries:
Laura Kemp, First Secretary (Public Affairs) mob. (+62) 811 187 3175