Indonesia Presents Forest and Land Fire Control Strategy at UN Forum

The Indonesian government reported its success in controlling forest and land fires (karhutla) at an international forum of the United Nations. The government also warned of the potential risk of a prolonged dry season in 2026 that could increase fire vulnerability. This was conveyed by Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni at the 21st Session of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF21) at the UN Headquarters in New York on Monday (11/5) local time. At the forum, the Forestry Minister stated that Indonesia has successfully reduced the area affected by karhutla by 86 percent over the past decade. This achievement is attributed to the strengthening of an integrated prevention system, early warnings, law enforcement, and community involvement at the grassroots level. The Indonesian delegation at the session was also attended by Indonesia’s Permanent Representative to the UN in New York, the Director General of Sustainable Forest Management, and the Director General of Watershed Management and Forest Rehabilitation. The Forestry Minister explained that the downward trend in karhutla continued during the 2024 to 2025 period. The strengthening of hotspot monitoring and rapid extinguishing responses by joint teams are considered to have contributed to the reduction in fire areas compared to previous years. Nevertheless, the Forestry Minister warned of the potential increase in fire risks in 2026. Based on weather data analysis, a low-to-moderate intensity El Niño phenomenon is projected to occur starting from June 2026, which could trigger a longer dry season. “This year we must be much more careful. The potential for a longer dry season due to El Niño demands high vigilance from all of us. I urge all ranks and related partners not to be complacent and to continue increasing patrols and monitoring in vulnerable areas,” said Raja Juli in a press release on Tuesday (12/5/2026). Raja Juli added that karhutla control cannot be carried out by the central government alone. The involvement of the community, law enforcement apparatus, and all stakeholders is considered a key factor in ensuring effective early prevention of fires. “Collaboration and preparedness are key. We must ensure that karhutla figures can continue to be suppressed to maintain forest conservation and ensure healthy air quality for the community,” said Raja Juli.