Central Java Provincial Government Strengthens Volunteer Competency to Mitigate Fire Risks

This strategic move is considered essential to minimise material losses and prevent loss of life. The Regional Secretary of Central Java, Sumarno, emphasised that strengthening volunteer capacity is an absolute responsibility of the local government. Representing Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi, he expressed full support for the training agenda.

“We appreciate and fully support the capacity-building activities for our volunteers. This is part of the local government’s responsibility to ensure that when disasters occur, the response can be swifter,” Sumarno stated in a written release on Friday (4/9/2026).

According to Sumarno, the speed of disaster management requires proven competence from volunteers on the ground. The speed of action is directly proportional to minimising the impact of material damage and fatalities.

Facing potential disasters during the current dry season, the Central Java Provincial Government highlighted the threat of land and landfill fires. Sumarno reminded the public not to engage in indiscriminate burning outside of their homes.

Meanwhile, the Acting Head of the Central Java Provincial BPBD (Regional Disaster Management Agency), Bergas Catursasi Penanggungan, confirmed the high risk of fire due to negligence or human error. Agricultural and plantation lands are identified as the areas most vulnerable to such careless activities. His agency ensured that all teams remain on standby to respond to any detected hotspots.

“BPBD must remain prepared. As soon as a hotspot is detected that poses a fire risk, we move immediately to extinguish it in collaboration with local Fire Departments,” said Bergas.

Based on data from BPBD Central Java, 615 fire incidents occurred between 1 January and 30 August 2026. This figure includes 282 forest and land fires, as well as 333 fires involving buildings and residential areas.

The high frequency of these incidents demands personnel readiness through integrated training. This capacity-building agenda is attended by 150 selected participants from various regencies and cities across Central Java.

The training material is led directly by experienced instructors from Basarnas (National Search and Rescue Agency). The primary focus of the training emphasises Urban Search and Rescue (SAR) techniques.