Concerned by Forest Fires, MP Bambang Purwanto Sends Rescue Team Aid
A Member of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) from Commission IV, representing the Democratic Party, continues to demonstrate commitment to communities affected by forest and land fires (karhutla) in West Kotawaringin Regency, Central Kalimantan Province. As a representative from the Central Kalimantan constituency, Bambang Purwanto has distributed complete sets of masks to the Forest Fire Task Force (Satgas Karhutla) teams.
The aid was received directly by the Head of the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of West Kotawaringin, Samuel. “The aid I am providing is for the team because they are the frontline defenders of the community, especially since I have received information that some team members have even lost their lives,” Bambang stated.
He emphasised that the current forest fire conditions in West Kotawaringin are quite alarming, necessitating additional support for rescue teams. Furthermore, he expressed appreciation for the hard work of the Task Force and volunteers who are continuously working to extinguish fires at various hotspots.
According to him, most fire locations are situated in peatland areas, making the suppression process highly risky. Therefore, the safety and health of the officers in the field must remain the primary concern.
“The Task Force is the frontline in handling forest fires. Therefore, their health and safety must be prioritised. This is especially true as most fire locations are in peatland areas, which carry significant risks during handling operations,” said Bambang.
He explained that the provision of masks is a form of support for forest fire management efforts and a gesture of care for the officers’ well-being. The masks are expected to help protect the Task Force from exposure to thick smoke while performing their duties in the field.
Bambang also reminded that the health and safety of officers must not be neglected amidst their efforts to protect the public. Given the difficult terrain and surrounding smoke, Task Force personnel continue to work hard to ensure flames are controlled and do not spread.
“This support serves as motivation for the Task Force. I hope they remain spirited in carrying out their duties, but they must never ignore their personal safety while battling the flames,” he added.
He noted that the handling of forest fires in West Kotawlagin Regency has been conducted through strong collaboration. Local governments, alongside the TNI-Polri (Military and Police) and volunteers, continue to work in synergy to face the disaster.
Bambang also urged the entire community of West Kotawaringin to support prevention and mitigation measures for forest fires. He believes collective efforts are essential to ensure West Kotawaringin Regency can avoid the threat of haze.
In addition to impacting public health, the haze caused by forest fires also has the potential to disrupt local activities and the economy.
Following the delivery of masks to the Main Post for Emergency Response to Forest Fires in West Kotawaringin, Bambang Purwanto also provided masks to the West Kotawaringin Fire Department and the Manggala Agni unit.