🔑 Key Takeaways
- BNI swiftly deployed essential humanitarian aid and activated mobile service units to areas affected by a 7.2M earthquake in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, in early 2026.
- Aid focuses on basic necessities like food, clean water, and blankets, alongside financial solutions such as money transfers and cash withdrawals via digital services and mobile banking units.
- This action underscores BNI's strategic role as an economic pillar, ensuring financial inclusion and community recovery continue amidst crises, supported by technology and multi-stakeholder collaboration.
JAKARTA, February 22, 2026 – PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (BNI) has once again demonstrated its strong commitment to community resilience and economic continuity in the face of natural disasters. Following a powerful 7.2 Magnitude earthquake that struck parts of Flores, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), in early 2026, BNI promptly mobilized its network and resources to deliver urgent humanitarian aid while ensuring vital banking services remain accessible to affected communities.
BNI's rapid response is not merely an aid distribution effort but an integral part of its enhanced disaster response strategy, updated in late 2025. 'We understand that in emergencies like this, the speed and relevance of aid are key. Beyond basic needs, access to financial services is also crucial for both short-term and long-term recovery,' stated BNI CEO, Mr. Roy Suryo, during a virtual press conference held from Jakarta.
Prioritized Aid and Service Innovation Amidst Crisis
The assistance disbursed by BNI focuses on the primary needs of displaced persons and directly affected communities. Thousands of logistics packages containing instant food, mineral water, blankets, clothing, emergency tents, and basic medicines have been distributed to evacuation posts in some of the worst-hit areas across East Flores, Sikka, and West Manggarai.
'We are working closely with the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) and local governments to ensure aid is targeted and reaches those most in need,' added Mrs. Rina Kartika, BNI's Head of Corporate Communications. She also emphasized that BNI's volunteer teams, specially trained for disaster response, are on-site to assist with distribution and needs assessment.
In addition to physical aid, BNI has also activated mobile banking service units equipped with Starlink satellite connectivity to ensure financial transactions continue. These services allow community members to make cash withdrawals, transfers, and even open temporary accounts for those who have lost their documents.
'BNI's ability to maintain banking services in a disaster zone is a tangible example of their ongoing investment in digital infrastructure and risk mitigation capabilities. This is critically important, as disrupted financial access can significantly impede economic recovery,' commented Dr. Ardi Wijaya, a disaster management expert from the University of Indonesia, commending BNI's initiative.
Long-Term Commitment and Financial Resilience
BNI's actions in NTT are not an isolated incident but a reflection of the 'Beyond Financial Services' philosophy upheld by the company. Active involvement in post-disaster handling aims to rebuild community resilience, both socially and economically.
Roy Suryo also highlighted the importance of post-disaster financial literacy. 'We also plan to conduct financial education sessions at evacuation sites, helping communities manage the aid received and plan for their financial recovery. This is part of our responsibility as a national financial institution,' he explained.
With this comprehensive response, BNI not only acts as a financial service provider but also as a strategic partner to the government and communities in facing challenges, strengthening the hope that the local economy in NTT will rebound with greater resilience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Why is BNI actively involved in natural disaster response?
- A: BNI's involvement is part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) commitment and its role as a national financial institution to support economic stability and community welfare, especially during crises. It also underlines BNI's commitment to sustainability and community resilience.
- Q: How does BNI ensure banking services continue in disaster-affected areas?
- A: BNI utilizes mobile banking service units equipped with modern technology like Starlink satellite connectivity, enabling essential transactions such as cash withdrawals and transfers to continue in affected locations. Specialized teams are also deployed to assist with operations.
- Q: What specific aid did BNI provide for the NTT earthquake victims?
- A: Aid includes basic necessities such as instant food, mineral water, blankets, clothing, emergency tents, and medicines. Additionally, BNI facilitates access to crucial financial services through mobile units and financial education.
