Tuesday, 15 September 2026

Bobby Nasution Calls for Prayers for Disaster-Free, Drug-Free North Sumatra

AHMAD ZULFIKAR SAGALA - Wednesday, 06 May 2026 09:00

PHOTO: Doc. North Sumatra Communication and Information Office

CALL FOR PRAYERS FOR A DRUG-FREE NORTH SUMATRA: Governor Bobby Nasution urges residents during the 78th anniversary of the North Sumatra Provincial Government in Medan to pray for an end to disasters and drug-related problems.

MEDAN | INDATANEWS.COM – North Sumatra Governor Muhammad Bobby Afif Nasution has called on residents to unite in prayer for the region to be free from natural disasters and drug abuse, two issues he described as persistent challenges for the province.

The appeal was made during a large-scale religious gathering (Pengajian Akbar) marking the 78th anniversary of the North Sumatra Provincial Government, held at the Al Mashun Grand Mosque in Medan.

Remembering the 2025 Disaster

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Bobby reflected on the devastating natural disasters that struck North Sumatra at the end of 2025, when floods and landslides claimed more than 300 lives, injured thousands, and displaced many families.

"We have just experienced a major disaster and we do not want it to happen again. Therefore, let us pray together," he said.

He emphasized the importance of solidarity and collective responsibility in strengthening disaster preparedness and response.

78TH ANNIVERSARY OF NORTH SUMATRA PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT: The mass religious gathering marking the 78th anniversary of the North Sumatra Provincial Government was attended by thousands of worshippers, the majority of whom were women. (PHOTO: Doc. North Sumatra Communication and Information Office)

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Strengthening Preparedness and Spiritual Resilience

The governor stressed that beyond technical and preventive measures, spiritual strength and communal prayer are also essential to protect the region from future catastrophes.

He urged communities to learn from past tragedies and improve readiness in facing emergency situations, while maintaining unity across society.

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North Sumatra Drug Emergency

In addition to disaster concerns, Bobby highlighted the ongoing drug abuse crisis in the province, describing North Sumatra as still being in a "state of emergency" in its fight against narcotics.

According to February 2026 data from Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN), approximately 1.5 million people in North Sumatra are involved in drug use or abuse.

"This is a deeply troubling issue, especially for mothers. We are still at the top in terms of drug problems. Let us pray together so that drugs disappear from North Sumatra," he said.

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Thousands Attend Mass Prayer Gathering

The event was attended by thousands of worshippers, predominantly women. Abu Kosim, Head of the North Sumatra Provincial Welfare Bureau, said the gathering featured a religious sermon (tausiah) delivered by Islamic preacher Ustaz Das'ad Latif.

In his remarks, Das'ad Latif praised the provincial government's decision to commemorate the anniversary through a religious approach, calling it more meaningful and sustainable than entertainment-based celebrations. (IDNC)

REPORTER: Darmailawati | EDITOR: Fik Sagala