Manggala Agni Firefighters Brave Bear Territory to Extinguish Peatland Fire in Jambi

Manggala Agni firefighters, alongside a joint task force, successfully extinguished a fire that had been burning in the Bram Itam Protected Peat Forest (HLG) in West Tanjungjabung Regency, Jambi. The blaze, which had consumed dozens of hectares since Wednesday, was fully contained by Friday afternoon.

Damin, the Firefighting Coordinator for Manggala Agni’s Bukit Tempurung Operations Area, confirmed the success, attributing it to divine intervention and the hard work of the team on the ground. Following the operation, personnel began packing up thousands of metres of hose and other equipment, while police officers installed a police line around the affected area before departing.

Damin explained that the operation presented unique challenges beyond the difficult terrain and scarce water sources. The protected peat forest is home to wild animals, including bears, and the team frequently encountered their tracks. Despite the potential danger, the firefighters prioritised their mission to save the forest, which also serves as the animals’ habitat. The bears did not disturb the team during the operation.

According to Syaiful Anwar, Coordinator of the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) Information Centre for West Tanjungjabung, the Bram Itam HLG is not only a habitat for honey bears but also for venomous snakes and large centipedes, inhabiting the swampy, shrub-covered landscape.