Gus Yasin Acknowledges Natural Disasters in Central Java Due to Land Conversion and Deforestation

Semarang — Vice Governor of Central Java Taj Yasin Maimoen, or Gus Yasin, acknowledged that recent natural disasters in the region were triggered by forest land conversion. He made the statement after attending a Central Java Provincial DPRD plenary session regarding a draft regional regulation on critical land rehabilitation and forest reclamation management on Tuesday, 26 May 2026.

“Our disasters stem from conversions, land use changes, and other factors in forest areas,” Yasin told media.

Yasin noted several areas in Central Java requiring attention due to environmental damage. “Particularly Mount Slamet, where some parts we want to restore as forest to prevent further degradation. Other mountains, including in Pati Regency, also have extensive deforestation,” he said.

Yasin explained that land conversion in forest areas is typically for plantations. “The trees are cleared for plantations. Now it’s similar, but for vegetables, which don’t hold the soil well,” he said.

He welcomed the draft regulation, stating that stricter management would improve forest protection in Central Java. “With this regulation and its discussion, we will enforce stricter measures to better protect the forests,” Yasin said.

He added that the draft regulation would undergo further discussion. “It’s a proposal that will be reviewed collectively. The key is tightening measures to enhance forest protection,” Yasin said.

The Central Java Provincial DPRD has approved the draft regional regulation on critical land rehabilitation and forest reclamation management, proposed by Commission B.

During the plenary session at the Central Java Provincial DPRD building, Commission B Secretary Sholeha Kurniawati highlighted land conversion and deforestation in Central Java, stating they increase the risk of natural disasters.