‘’It’s Not Much’’ – Indonesian Minister’s Remarks On Malaysia’s Flood Aid Draws Criticism
Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian said that Indonesia has a bigger budget compared to what Malaysia donated.
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Indonesia’s Minister of Home Affairs (Mendagri), Muhammad Tito Karnavian, recently made a remark that has irked some people.
Also known as Pak Tito Karnavian, he recently commented on live TV that the flood aid sent from Malaysia during the Aceh Tsunami was minuscule compared to what Indonesia has contributed to its flood victims.
He shared that Malaysia’s humanitarian aid was from private companies and the value did not reach a billion rupiah’s worth.
He added that Indonesia has a larger budget than that and the amount they deployed surpassed the humanitarian aid given.
His comments did not sit well with viewers who thought he sounded ungrateful and tone deaf.
A Threads user wondered if Pak Tito knew the meaning of humanitarian aid. She explained that humanitarian aid isn’t supposed to solve everything but serve as a means to an end during dire situations.
Meanwhile, some Indonesians felt embarrassed and apologised to Malaysians for his remarks. They thanked Malaysia for providing aid when they needed it.
However, Pak Tito has his supporters too. Some believe he didn’t mean harm and was simply explaining things matter-of-factly.
Praise for Aceh Governor
The recent Storm Senyar has severely affected several regions in Indonesia. However, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has declined international aid, saying that his government was fully capable of handling the crisis internally.
In stark contrast to his colleagues, Aceh Governor Muzakir Manaf, also known as Mualem, welcomes international assistance to cope with the devastating floods and landslides in his region.
Storm Senyar has severely affected regions such as Aceh Tamiang, Aceh Timur, Aceh Utara, Bireuen, Takengon, Beutong, and Langsa.
READ MORE: Malaysia Helps Aceh As Floods Displace 900,000 People
The former commander of the Free Aceh Movement said Aceh is entirely open to international aid, whether it comes from foreign government or the private sector. He believes in prioritising humanitarian principles above everything.
In principle, we are dealing with humanity. Whoever helps us, we accept it sincerely. Anyone, anywhere.
Muzakir Manaf stated in a written statement on Tuesday, 16 December 2025.
Muzakir Manaf is a polarising figure, given his freedom fighter background, but some Indonesians believe he represents the voice of the people better after Pak Tito Karnavian’s latest remarks.
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