MP: Malaysia's Offer of Forest Fire Assistance Could Strengthen Response Efforts
Dini Rahmania, a member of Commission VIII of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), believes that the offer of assistance from the Malaysian government to handle forest and land fires (karhutla) in Indonesia could serve as a significant additional strength. This support is expected to accelerate the firefighting process in several regions that are still affected.
Dini expressed her support for this international collaboration, noting that managing forest fires requires vast resources. Although the Indonesian government has been making maximum efforts, the presence of support from a friendly nation is viewed as a strategic move.
“The important thing is that the procedure is clear and the assistance truly meets the needs on the ground,” Dini stated in Jakarta on Friday (11/9).
Dini appreciated the government’s steps in deploying ground firefighting operations, monitoring hotspots, and land cooling efforts. She also noted the intensive coordination conducted by the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) with local governments and relevant agencies in priority areas.
However, she warned that the success indicators for forest fire management should not rely solely on the number of hotspots extinguished. The aspect of protecting the community must remain the top priority.
“We must not let our focus be solely on the fire, while the impact on the health and lives of citizens is neglected,” she asserted. She emphasised the importance of protecting vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, and residents exposed to smoke near fire locations.
Regarding the potential influx of international aid, Dini requested that the government manage it transparently and accountably. Every asset or aid received must be ensured to be well-targeted and provide tangible benefits on the ground.
“Accountability remains vital. Assistance must truly serve as an additional force for the response, not merely a symbol of cooperation,” she added.
Previously, Malaysian authorities stated their readiness to assist in extinguishing forest fires in Indonesia. The Malaysian Minister of Communications and Government Spokesperson, Fahmi Fadzil, revealed that they are currently awaiting approval or a “green light” from the Indonesian government.
During a cabinet meeting in Putrajaya on Wednesday (9/9), Malaysia’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) along with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Wisma Putra) had prepared a list of firefighting assets ready to be sent to Indonesia.
“NRES and Wisma Putra have stated in the cabinet meeting that the list of assets we can provide to assist our neighbouring country has been submitted,” Fahmi said during an online press conference.