In Indonesia's Aceh province, people are raising white flags to protest the slow government response after deadly floods in November. The floods, caused by a rare cyclone, killed over 1,000 people and displaced hundreds of thousands. Many still lack clean water, food, electricity, and medicine. The governor of North Aceh, Ismail A Jalil, broke down publicly this month, saying, "Does the central government not know [what we're experiencing]? I don't understand." Despite this, President Prabowo Subianto has refused foreign aid, stating the situation is "under control" and that "Indonesia is capable of overcoming this disaster." Prabowo has not declared the floods a national disaster, which would unlock emergency funds and speed relief. His government faces criticism for being slow and disconnected. Earlier this year, his flagship free school meals program drew controversy after mass food poisonings. Protests over jobs and living costs have also shaken the country. Last Thursday, dozens protested in Banda Aceh, waving white flags—usually a surrender sign but now a call for help. Protester Husnul Khawatinnissa said, "The flags do not mean we are giving in. They are a distress signal to grab the attention of friends outside." Villages have been destroyed and roads damaged, isolating communities. Survivors report sickness and hunger. Demonstrator Nurmi Ali asked, "How long more do we have to wash ourselves in mud and floodwaters?" The Aceh governor has welcomed aid "from anyone, anywhere." While the government claims to have spent about $3.6 billion on relief, some foreign aid offers have been rejected. The UAE sent rice and relief packages, but these were returned following "guidance" from the central government. Experts say Prabowo's refusal to accept help is about maintaining control and image. Political analyst Vidhyandika Djati Perkasa noted, "Opening the door to foreign assistance means inviting foreign scrutiny, which they do not want." Residents remember the 2004 tsunami that hit Aceh harder but saw faster international relief. Now, the post-flood crisis feels worse. Resident Rindu Majalina said, "It has been very painful and miserable. Everything has come to a complete standstill. My children don't know if they'll ever be able to go back to school."