Wednesday, 29 July 2026
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.
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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
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