Aceh Commemorates 20th Anniversary of Tsunami

On December 26, 2024, Indonesia's Aceh province commemorated the 20th anniversary of the devastating tsunami that struck in 2004, killing approximately 230,000 people across 15 countries, with over 160,000 fatalities in Aceh alone. Ceremonies included laying flowers at mass graves and prayers at the Baiturrahman Grand Mosque, which survived the disaster. In Banda Aceh, residents reflected on the city's remarkable recovery, with improved infrastructure and new tourism opportunities, despite many returning to coastal areas deemed high-risk. A photo exhibition at the Tsunami Museum showcased both the destruction and the resilience of the Acehnese people, capturing the journey from tragedy to recovery. Local officials emphasized ongoing disaster preparedness initiatives, as the memories of the tsunami gradually fade among younger generations. The commemoration was marked by the theme “Aceh Thanks the World,” highlighting continued support from national and international donors.