Academic Praises Prabowo's Stance on Law Enforcement in Forest Fire Cases
Achmad Baidowi, a governance academic from Institut Darul Ulum Banyuanyar, has praised President Prabowo Subianto’s firm stance in handling forest and land fire cases across several regions. He called for all parties involved to be prosecuted. “We appreciate the firmness of President Prabowo Subianto in handling forest and land fire cases in several provinces in Kalimantan and Sumatra,” Baidowi said in a statement on Tuesday (25/8/2026).
According to Baidowi, the government’s firm stance is evident from the action taken against 72 suspects in forest fire cases. He urged the government to continue its investigation, including examining whether any corporations were involved. “This firm stance takes the form of actions or sanctions against perpetrators, especially corporations, as well as law enforcement against the 72 suspects,” he said.
“The 72 suspects need to be investigated to determine whether there is any connection to corporations or individual initiative. Law enforcement is crucial as a deterrent so that forest fires do not recur,” he added.
Baidowi also highlighted the synergy between the central and regional governments in addressing forest fire issues. He noted Prabowo’s direct presence in affected areas to ensure integrated, cross-sectoral handling. “Handling forest fire cases cannot be done by the central government alone; it also requires the involvement of regional governments. With synergy between central and regional governments, the handling of forest fire cases will be brought under control more quickly,” he said.
President Prabowo Subianto has conducted a tour of forest and land fire locations in Kalimantan and Sumatra. The tour was a step to check and ensure that the handling of forest fire problems on the ground is running optimally.
Prabowo also gave directives to members of the Red and White Cabinet and regional governments in handling forest and land fires in Indonesia. He requested that water boreholes be drilled immediately at every forest fire hotspot. The directive was delivered while chairing a limited meeting on forest fire handling at Roesmin Nurjadin Air Force Base in Pekanbaru, Riau, on Monday (24/8/2026). The directive was given after receiving a presentation on forest fire handling by the Riau Regional Disaster Management Agency.
“Go straight there and drill a water borehole immediately. As soon as there is a hotspot, drill a water borehole there. Do not wait for a fire to start,” Prabowo told his subordinates.
To anticipate the emergence of forest fire hotspots, Prabowo encouraged prioritising prevention. He asked central and regional governments to educate the public not to clear land by burning. “Furthermore, all officials must prevent any individuals or people who deliberately burn for any reason. Provide explanations and education to all elements in all villages, explain that burning land is strictly prohibited,” Prabowo said.