MP: Wildlife protection must be integrated into forest fire management

Evacuation must not wait until wildlife is found in a critical condition.

[Jakarta (ANTARA) ] - Member of Commission XII of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Meitri Citra Wardani, has requested the government to strengthen wildlife protection in areas currently experiencing forest and land fires (karhutla), such as in Kalimantan.

“Evacuation must not wait until wildlife is found in a critical condition,” Meitri stated in Jakarta on Friday.

Furthermore, she emphasised that forest fires are increasingly threatening ecosystems and the survival of wildlife. Meitri noted that these fires cause not only land degradation but also the destruction of habitats and food sources for animals.

In Central Kalimantan, approximately 1,717 hectares of land in West Kotawaringint District were reported burnt as of 1 September 2026. The Central Kalimantan Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) stated that the habitats of protected species have been affected. Several animals, including snakes and pangolins, have been found within the impacted areas.

In response to this, Meitri asserted that wildlife must be an integral part of the disaster response design for forest and land fires.

Regarding the case, Murlan stated that community reports are a vital component in wildlife rescue efforts, particularly in emergency situations when animals are found sick, injured, or affected by fires.

“The role of the community is very important. We urge the public to immediately report any wildlife found in need of assistance so that officers can take prompt action,” he said.