Ministry of Forestry asks for more selective mangrove proposals for the FOLU Kalimantan Selatan 2026

Banjarbaru (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Forestry is requesting that proposals for mangrove rehabilitation within the FOLU Net Sink 2030 funding in South Kalimantan for 2026 be submitted more selectively, especially concerning the clarity of land status, site readiness, and potential success rates.

The Head of the South Kalimantan Provincial Forestry Service, Fathimatuzzahra, in Banjarbaru, Wednesday, said that this was conveyed by the Ministry of Forestry’s verification team when examining the proposed mangrove rehabilitation and Forest and Land Rehabilitation (RHL) proposals submitted by the South Kalimantan Provincial Government in Jakarta on Tuesday (24/2).

“During the verification process, the Ministry of Forestry requested that the proposed mangrove locations have a high success rate, be free of legal issues, and meet other technical requirements to ensure that the activities are carried out optimally and accountably,” she said.

The Ministry of Forestry emphasised the need for greater selectivity, especially in ensuring clear land ownership and measurable on-site readiness to avoid problems in the future.

In addition to mangroves, the RHL proposals were also verified, divided into two categories: RHL within and outside forest areas. RHL within forest areas is focused on social forestry areas to strengthen protective functions while also empowering communities.

Meanwhile, RHL outside forest areas is directed towards three priority watershed areas affected by flooding, namely the Barabai, Riam Kiwa, and Tabunio watersheds in Tanah Laut Regency, as a step to control hydrometeorological risks and restore critical land.

Fathimatuzzahra revealed that South Kalimantan is one of five provinces that received funding allocations for the FOLU Net Sink 2030.

Based on the evaluation of the implementation of FOLU phases I and II, the Ministry of Forestry assessed that South Kalimantan is implementing the program in accordance with the provisions and mechanisms set by the central government.

“Selectivity in the proposal process is key to achieving the target of reducing emissions in the forestry and land use sectors, while also ensuring that each budget allocation has a real impact on the environment and communities,” said Fathimatuzzahra.