Jakarta - The United Nations in association with the Indonesian government has provided relief aid for quake victims in West Sumatra, and coordinate humanitarian assistance from the international community.

In 24 hours following the quake which struck West Sumatra on September 30 leaving hundreds of fatalities and very serious damage, the Indonesian government has responded to emergency help quickly and effectively, accepting relief aid offered by other countries and international organizations.

The UN in Indonesia has dispatched a joint team on October 1 to help coordinate quick joint assessment by various international organizations to identify urgent emergency needs. The United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination System (UNDAC) team is now also already in the field to help the government coordinate with international SAR teams.

Emergency funding has also been prepared to supplement the government`s emergency efforts.

The initial assistance from the UN agencies include family needs, school tents, reproductive health equipment, and heavy equipment and machinery to assist SAR operations.

The UN along with national and international non-governmental organizations and the relevant parties sent their experienced and skilled staff personnel, resources, relief aid to quake-affected regions, and provide logistic assistance to support national response.

The needs of the victims are currently being assessed for the use of the available resources in the most effective way and timely. The UN has also assigned coordination representatives at the different West Sumatra quake command post at the governor`s official residence.

-Antara, 06 October 2009-