Indonesian volunteer aid arrived in Hualien County to assist with flood recovery after the Mataian River barrier lake overflowed. The volunteer group helped clear mud and debris in Guangfu Township, demonstrating solidarity and community support.
The floods occurred after Super Typhoon Ragasa struck eastern Taiwan with heavy rainfall last week. Approximately 60 million tonnes of muddy water rushed downstream, inundating streets and damaging ground-floor homes. Local infrastructure and households suffered severe damage, creating urgent cleanup needs.
Huang Jung-tun, founder of the non-governmental organization Welldoer House, organized the campaign through online appeals. He called on volunteers to help restore the township and provide relief to affected residents. Welldoer House has been assisting migrant workers and communities in Taiwan for nine years.
About 50 volunteers participated, including 40 Indonesians and 10 Vietnamese, many of whom are employed in construction. They gathered early at Hualien Station at 5 a.m., equipped with helmets, rain boots, and shovels, before traveling to the hardest-hit areas.
Kholis Anwar, an Indonesian volunteer working at an auto repair shop, said he joined to support the local community. He described streets still covered in thick mud and damaged household items, noting that many belongings were beyond repair. He emphasized the positive reception from residents, who expressed gratitude and gave thumbs-up signs during the cleanup.
Tsai I-yang, a Welldoer House member, highlighted the critical role of migrant workers in emergency response. He noted that their participation enhances community solidarity and raises public awareness of migrant contributions to Taiwan society.
Huang expressed hope that such initiatives will reduce discrimination against migrant workers. He believes public understanding and appreciation of foreign laborers’ efforts can grow through visible humanitarian actions like this.
The cleanup illustrates how local and migrant communities can work together in disaster recovery. It also underscores the ongoing challenges of typhoon-related flooding in Taiwan. Authorities continue monitoring affected areas and coordinating additional relief efforts.
Looking ahead, Welldoer House plans to continue mobilizing volunteers and expand public outreach to support both residents and migrant workers. Their approach demonstrates a model for community engagement during natural disasters.
Indonesian volunteer aid exemplifies cross-cultural solidarity while addressing urgent flood recovery needs in Taiwan. The initiative strengthens ties between migrant workers and local communities and fosters resilience in disaster-affected regions.
