EduAsiaNews, Jakarta — Universitas Pembangunan Nasional “Veteran” Jakarta (UPNVJ) is preparing approximately 400 kilograms of humanitarian aid for communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). A total of 15 boxes containing medical supplies, hygiene kits, food, and clothing are scheduled to be dispatched on Monday (August 24, 2026) from Halim Perdanakusuma Airport in Jakarta. The distribution is being coordinated with the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) and other relevant authorities as part of UPNVJ’s humanitarian response to the needs of communities in the affected areas.
Coordinator of the UPNVJ Cares for NTT Disaster Response, M. Ikhsan Amar, M.Kes., said several options for transporting the relief supplies are currently being coordinated. One option involves working with BNPB and the Indonesian Air Force to transport the aid by Hercules aircraft from Halim Perdanakusuma.
“The aid is planned to be dispatched on Monday through Halim. UPN Veteran Jakarta is coordinating with BNPB. There are several options for transporting the supplies, one of which is through the Air Force from Halim Perdanakusuma using a Hercules aircraft,” Ikhsan said.
UPNVJ is also considering sending personnel to accompany the aid and oversee its distribution to the affected areas. A similar approach was previously adopted when UPNVJ carried out a humanitarian mission to Aceh.
According to Ikhsan, medical supplies are among the top priorities in the first phase of assistance. The supplies include masks and blood pressure monitors to support healthcare services for affected communities.
“Our main focus is medical equipment, including masks and blood pressure monitors that are needed. NTT currently needs support in the form of medical supplies,” he said.
In addition to medical supplies, UPNVJ is preparing personal hygiene and sanitation items, including soap, shampoo, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and other essential hygiene products. Food assistance in the form of biscuits will also be provided, along with clothing and new underwear for both women and men.
Ikhsan explained that the assistance has been packed into 15 boxes, with a total estimated weight of around 400 kilograms.
“In total, there are 15 boxes. The overall weight is approximately 400 kilograms, consisting of medical supplies and other necessities,” he said.
The types of assistance were selected to help meet basic needs during the emergency response period, particularly in healthcare, personal hygiene, food, and clothing.
The shipment represents the initial phase of UPNVJ’s humanitarian response. Ikhsan said the university is also considering a subsequent phase involving the deployment of a team directly to the disaster-affected areas.
“The next phase may involve sending a team directly to the disaster site to help our brothers and sisters in East Nusa Tenggara,” he said.
The deployment plan will be adjusted according to developments on the ground, the needs of affected communities, access to disaster areas, and coordination with the government and relevant agencies. This approach is intended to ensure that UPNVJ’s assistance reaches those most in need and responds to the actual conditions in the affected areas.
The humanitarian initiative also reflects the implementation of the Bela Negara values that form part of UPNVJ’s institutional identity. Its concern for communities affected by disasters is demonstrated through solidarity, service, and the use of university resources to support emergency response and recovery efforts.(www.upnvj.ac.id)
