National Forest Fire Hotspots Decrease by 400 Points, Aerial Operations Strengthened
The number of high-confidence forest and land fire (karhutla) hotspots nationwide has experienced a significant decrease of 400 points, falling to 1,037 points as of 15 September 2026. Nevertheless, the Ministry of Forestry, alongside joint teams, continues to strengthen ground and aerial operations to anticipate an increase in fire points across several regions in Sumatra.
Based on data from the Ministry of Forestry’s SiPongi system, a drastic decline was observed in Central Kalimantan (from 689 to 266 points), South Kalimantan (112 to 72 points), and West Kalimantan (203 to 43 points). Conversely, an increase in hotspots occurred in South Sumatra, which has now reached 245 points, Jambi at 62 points, and Riau at 15 points.
The Head of the Bureau of Public Relations and International Cooperation at the Ministry of Forestry, Ristianto Pribadi, stated that this satellite data serves as the basis for determining operational priorities. “The increase in hotspots in South Sumatra and Jambi is the primary focus of integrated handling, ranging from direct firefighting to land wetting,” Ristianto said in a written statement on Wednesday (16/9).
To support control efforts, the government has deployed 53 aerial units across six priority provinces. A total of 34 units are focused on water bombing operations, while another 19 units are deployed for aerial patrols and Weather Modification Operations (OMC). This effort is further bolstered by the assistance of three CH-47 Chinook helicopters from Japan, stationed in Mempawah, West Kalimantan, to accelerate firefighting.
In line with the directives of President Prabowo Subianto, every indication of a fire point must be responded to as early as possible to prevent spread. In addition to physical firefighting, the government is also tightening law enforcement against intentional land clearing, including monitoring corporations suspected of involvement.
Regarding the environmental impact, air quality in several regions remains in the unhealthy category due to the spread of smoke. In Pontianak, visibility on the night of 15 September was recorded at only two kilometres. The Ministry of Forestry urges residents in affected areas to reduce outdoor activities and to report any illegal land-clearing activities immediately.