MEDAN, North Sumatra (Indonesia), Dec. 29 (Xinhuanet) -- Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono on Wednesday issued decrees on stepping up relief efforts for provinces of Aceh and North Sumatra, that were seriously hit by Sunday's earthquake and tsunami, a government official said.

    "The decree stipulates to conduct evacuation intensively," Social Minister Bachtiar Chamzah said at the Center of Humanitarian Assistance for Victims of the Quake in an air force base in Medan, the capital of North Sumatra province.

    According to the minister, the evacuation will be conducted by mobilizing all transportation and hospital facilities, as well as supplying sufficient medicine.

    Bachtiar said the government has attached great attention to handling refugees, including providing sufficient food, medicine and clothes.

    The government would intensify searching and collecting victims' bodies, he said, adding the relief materials will soon be sent to the striken areas through land, marine and air transportation.

    "The president stressed to prioritize supply of food, drugs, fuel, tents, transportation and communication facilities," Bachtiar said.

    The president also asked the military and police to enhance their role in the relief efforts and in maintaining security.

    A powerful earthquake of 8.7 magnitude rocked many parts of theprovinces early Sunday, unleashing tidal waves.

    According to Indonesian Meteorological and Geological Bureau, some major cities and town such as Bireun, Medan and even Padang on the island could feel the strong tremor. Enditem