Forestry Minister Raja Juli Warns of Forest Fire Risks During El Niño Peak in September
The Minister of Forestry, Raja Juli Antoni, claims that the trend of hotspots for forest and land fires (karhutla) showed a decline throughout late August 2026.
He stated that the decrease in hotspots is the result of a combination of various factors, ranging from on-the-ground firefighting efforts to increased public awareness regarding the prohibition of land clearing through burning.
“So, if the numbers are decreasing today, it is a combination of all factors, but my thanks go to the Indonesian people, at least according to today’s data,” Raja Juli told reporters on Tuesday (1/9).
He cited the situation in Riau, which recorded zero hotspots for two consecutive days on 30-31 August. Meanwhile, hotspots in Central Kalimantan and West Kalimantan have also shown a downward trend in recent developments.
“Alhamdulillah, praise God, that the struggle over this past month to control forest fires shows an improving trend,” he said.
Despite the improving trend, Raja Juli warned that the government and the public must not become complacent. This is because September is expected to be a critical period in forest fire management due to El Niño conditions.
“This September is the peak of El Niño, so our next struggle begins,” he remarked.
On the other hand, Raja Juli mentioned that the decrease in hotspots is inseparable from the government’s steps in handling forest fires, including direct instructions from President Prabowo Subianto.
“My thanks certainly go to President Prabowo Subianto. He is a very firm leader, especially regarding these forest fires,” he said.
According to him, Prabowo has not only provided direction but has also led limited meetings regarding forest fire management and personally inspected conditions in several regions, including Kalimantan and Sumatra.
Raja Juli stated that the development of forest fires continues to be monitored by the central government. Raja admitted that he frequently receives reports and evaluations regarding hotspot trends from the Cabinet Secretary and the Minister of State Secretary.
“Day by day, I am always checked by the Cabinet Secretary and the Minister of State Secretary regarding today’s trends, and that motivates us all to continue working hard,” he said.
Furthermore, Raja Juli emphasised that the government will continue to monitor and manage forest fires to ensure that the improvements seen at the end of August can be maintained.
The government also urged the public not to engage in land burning that could potentially trigger widespread forest fires, especially amidst weather conditions that increase the risk of fire.