What's Happening?
Telkom Indonesia has announced the successful restoration of network and telecom services in the Sumatra region, which was severely affected by floods and landslides in late November 2025. The company reported that all services in Aceh, North Sumatra,
and West Sumatra have returned to stable operation with a 99.9% availability rate as of early January 2026. Restoration efforts included the deployment of Wi-Fi access points, mobile base stations, satellite-based internet, and backup power systems. The disaster resulted in significant loss of life and property, with over 1,140 fatalities and more than 166,000 homes damaged. Telkom has also provided free managed Wi-Fi services in affected areas and contributed over IDR123.23 billion (approximately US$7.3 million) towards disaster recovery efforts.
Why It's Important?
The restoration of telecom services in Sumatra is crucial for the region's recovery and rebuilding efforts. Reliable communication infrastructure is essential for coordinating relief operations, supporting economic activities, and ensuring the safety and well-being of affected communities. Telkom Indonesia's efforts highlight the role of telecommunications in disaster response and recovery, providing essential connectivity for both emergency services and residents. The company's financial contributions and free services also demonstrate corporate responsibility and support for the affected populations, potentially setting a precedent for other companies in similar situations.
What's Next?
As the region continues to recover, ongoing support from Telkom Indonesia and other stakeholders will be vital. The focus will likely shift towards rebuilding infrastructure, homes, and livelihoods. Continued monitoring and maintenance of the restored telecom services will be necessary to ensure their reliability. Additionally, there may be increased efforts to enhance disaster preparedness and resilience in the region, potentially involving further investment in infrastructure and community training programs.
