Pekanbaru Customs Facilitates Temporary Import of Five BNPB Helicopters for Forest Fire Handling
The Pekanbaru Customs and Excise Office has provided customs facilities in the form of a temporary import scheme for the entry of five helicopters on Tuesday (9/6). The helicopters will be used by the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) to strengthen preparedness and support efforts to tackle forest and land fires (karhutla).
Through the temporary import scheme, the imported helicopters are granted exemption from import duty, are not subject to Value Added Tax (PPN) or Sales Tax on Luxury Goods (PPnBM), and are excluded from the collection of Income Tax (PPh) Article 22 on imports. This facility is provided in accordance with applicable regulations to support the smooth entry of goods that serve a strategic function for the public interest and disaster management.
The five helicopters will be used for various operational activities in tackling forest and land fires, ranging from air patrols, hotspot monitoring, and mapping of fire-prone areas, to water bombing operations when necessary. The presence of this air fleet is expected to enhance the speed of early detection and the government’s response in dealing with potential forest and land fires.
Head of the Pekanbaru Customs and Excise Office, Benny Wismo Noegroho, stated that this customs facility support is a manifestation of Customs and Excise’s commitment to supporting strategic government programmes, particularly in strengthening disaster preparedness.
“The provision of this temporary import facility is our form of support for the government’s efforts to strengthen national capacity in disaster management. We are committed to providing optimal service for the entry of goods that support national interests,” said Benny.
According to Benny, in addition to providing service conveniences, Customs and Excise also continues to carry out its supervisory function professionally to ensure that the entire process of importing and utilising the goods complies with applicable regulations.
Beyond supporting fire suppression operations, the helicopters also play a role in mitigation and preparedness activities. Through regular aerial monitoring, various potential risks can be identified earlier, allowing preventive measures to be taken more effectively.
Benny expressed hope that the synergy between Customs and Excise and BNPB would further strengthen prevention and suppression efforts for forest and land fires across various regions.