PANGKALPINANG -- PT TIMAH (Persero) Tbk is once again putting its humanitarian spirit into action by deploying its Emergency Response Group (ERG) team to assist communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), in coordination with the Disaster Response Post of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM).
The PT TIMAH ERG team was officially dispatched by PT TIMAH Director of Corporate Strategy and Business Development, Harry Budi Sidharta, in Pangkalpinang on Monday (August 31, 2026).
As previously reported, a magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Flores, NTT, on August 15, 2026. According to the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG), the shallow earthquake was centered approximately 30 kilometers northeast of Nagekeo, with tremors felt across several areas of Flores, including Ende and Ruteng.
The PT TIMAH ERG team will first travel to Ende Regency before continuing its humanitarian activities to other areas, including Ruteng, depending on conditions and needs on the ground.
The nine-member PT TIMAH ERG team consists of rescue personnel, doctors, nurses, volunteers, and other supporting personnel. The presence of medical professionals is an important part of the mission to provide health services to communities in need in the aftermath of the disaster.
In addition to distributing aid, the PT TIMAH ERG team will also provide trauma-healing programs for affected communities, along with medical services and logistical assistance.
PT TIMAH Director of Corporate Strategy and Business Development, Harry Budi Sidharta, said the ERG deployment is part of the company's contribution to the humanitarian response following the disaster in NTT.
According to Harry, although conditions in several areas have begun to improve following the earthquake, various needs and challenges remain to be addressed. Therefore, the presence of the ERG team is expected to help communities based on the needs identified in the field.
"The most important thing is to set our intentions sincerely for humanitarian purposes. Alhamdulillah, through PT TIMAH, we have been given the opportunity and entrusted with providing humanitarian assistance in NTT," Harry said.
He emphasized that all team members must carry out the mission professionally, maintain good communication, and coordinate closely with all parties at the disaster site.
Harry also confirmed that each team member has been assigned specific responsibilities. Medical assistance, distribution of essential supplies, and other forms of support will be provided based on the needs of the affected communities.
"I urge the team to act professionally and maintain good communication and coordination. We hope everyone can carry out this humanitarian mission safely and in good health. May this journey be an act of worship and bring benefits to the community," he said.
Meanwhile, Chairman of the PT TIMAH ERG, Ali Samsuri, said the deployment of the team represents the company's efforts to provide assistance to communities in disaster-affected areas.
He urged all team members to maintain teamwork, take care of their health, and uphold the company's reputation throughout the humanitarian mission.
"All of you are representing PT TIMAH. Protect the good name of PT TIMAH and take care of your health. We must maintain our team spirit and solidarity," he said.
He expressed hope that the nine personnel deployed would carry out their duties to the fullest and provide meaningful assistance to the community, not only through healthcare services but also through practical support to help meet needs in the field. (*)
