Nias people told to remain calm

Saturday, April 09, 2005

JAKARTA: Vice President Jusuf Kalla told Nias and North Sumatra people to remain calm despite rumors that a tsunami was imminent in the area.

"Rumors are everywhere … in Nias, Padang and along the west coast of Sumatra. The government always advises the people not to panic," he said on Friday after attending a function at the Golkar Party head office.

Kalla, who also leads Golkar, was responding to a report that hundreds of Nias people had moved to higher ground or other locations due to fears of a tsunami and bigger earthquakes.

He suggested that people stay alert, but said the government could not stop them from abandoning their homes. — JP

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