North Halmahera Regency Permanently Closes Mount Dukono Climbing Activities

The North Halmahera Regency government has officially decreed the permanent closure of all climbing activities to Mount Dukono. This decision is contained in a circular signed by Asisten I of the Regional Secretariat for Government Affairs, F. N. Sahetapy, on behalf of the Regent of North Halmahera, and issued on 8 May 2026 in Tobelo. The firm step was taken to protect the safety of the public and tourists following reports from the Volcano Observation Post (PGA) of increased volcanic activity at Mount Dukono, which is now at Level II (Alert) status. This increase in activity is marked by the ejection of volcanic ash, which poses a potential hazard to climbers and surrounding residents. Through the circular coded 500.10.5.3/491, the local government has issued several important instructions to sub-district heads and village heads in the areas around Mount Dukono, including: All entry points to the Mount Dukono climbing area are to be closed permanently. There will be no official access available for the public or tourists to undertake climbing. Sub-district heads and village heads are urged to conduct extra strict supervision and to prohibit residents and tourists from climbing under any circumstances. Area managers or other parties are instructed not to issue climbing permits to anyone. Climbers who persist in ascending Mount Dukono will face firm sanctions in the form of: This permanent closure serves as anticipation against potential disasters that could arise at any time. Mount Dukono is one of the most active volcanoes in North Maluku, and its volcanic ash frequently reaches residential areas and flight paths.