PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with the people of Bali, following deadly flash floods that have devastated several parts of the Indonesian island.
Taking to Facebook, the leader conveyed his condolences to those who lost loved ones, and offered prayers for all affected by the severe flooding.
“I am deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to the flash floods that struck Bali. My prayers and thoughts are with the families mourning their loved ones, and all those whose homes and livelihoods have been affected,” he said.
Anwar also extended his support to Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, affirming Malaysia’s commitment to standing with Indonesia in the face of this natural disaster.
“In these trying times, I express my solidarity with President Prabowo Subianto. Malaysia grieves with you and will continue to stand in solidarity with the people of Bali as they undertake recovery efforts in the aftermath of this disaster,” he added.
Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) declared a one-week state of emergency on 10 September, following two days of torrential rainfall that triggered extensive flooding in several areas including Denpasar, Jembrana, Badung, and Gianyar. Though an initial two-week emergency was considered, the period was reduced to one week due to improved conditions.
BNPB Chief Suharyanto reassured the public that the emergency declaration was largely administrative, aimed at streamlining aid and coordination. He confirmed that emergency relief worth over one billion rupiah (approximately US\$60,700) had already been deployed. This included rubber boats, food packages, blankets, mattresses, tents and water pumps, with more aid expected as the situation develops.
By the morning of 11 September, at least 15 people had been confirmed dead, with six still missing. More than 600 individuals from 202 households were directly affected. The flash floods were caused by the overflow of the Tukad Badung River, following rainfall of 245.5mm in a single day — one of the heaviest downpours recorded in recent years.
Indonesia’s Minister of Public Works, Dody Hanggodo, confirmed that emergency response operations were well underway. Heavy machinery and mobile pumps had been deployed, with coordination involving the military, police, local authorities and the Bali Penida River Basin Office. A rapid response team was also dispatched to assist in clearing mud and restoring access.
By midday on 11 September, floodwaters had begun to recede in badly-hit areas such as Badung, and traffic in major tourist zones was gradually returning to normal. Authorities have made clear that public safety, infrastructure restoration, and long-term recovery are now their highest priorities.
The Malaysian government’s expression of solidarity underscores the close bilateral ties and humanitarian commitment shared between ASEAN neighbours in times of crisis. - September 12, 2025
