Prabowo at Forest Fire Discussion: Make No Mistake, I Have the Utmost Respect for Experts
President Prabowo Subianto has invited experts and academics to a discussion regarding the management of forest and land fires (karhutla) in peatlands. Prabowo emphasised his respect for specialists while requesting their input to inform his policy decisions.
This was stated by Prabowo while leading a discussion with several academics from various research institutions and universities at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, on Thursday (24/9). Initially, Prabowo presented three questions to the forum regarding the handling of forest fires in peatlands.
“First, we must correct the regulations. We must be firm about that. There are still eight regional regulations in certain regencies. Imagine, people want to use a loophole that allows burning up to 2 hectares. Which, in my opinion, is complete nonsense—that one person is allowed to burn 2 hectares,” said Prabowo in a video uploaded by the Presidential Secretariat YouTube account on Friday (25/9/2026).
Prabowo stated that the government continues to enforce order upon companies that violate provisions. He also requested input from experts regarding the best steps to close the gaps that lead to forest fires.
“Regarding companies, we already have provisions and obligations in place. For every 5 hectares, there must be a tower. For every certain number of hectares, there must be a reservoir; the regulations are already there. And you must have a firefighting team from your employees. Some companies comply, others do not. We must regularise this,” said Prabasting.
“But the main priority now, ladies and gentlemen, as experts, please tell me: what is the best step for us to prevent fires in forest areas, first,” he added.
Prabowo then noted that Indonesia possesses quite extensive peatlands. He questioned whether these lands could be utilised for productive purposes.
“Second, the forest areas containing peat. Two things. And third, what I am asking for, your advice, is whether we can utilise this peat productively? Can we plant crops on peat? I believe those are the three most important questions I need from you as experts,” he said.
Prabowo subsequently reaffirmed his respect for specialists, expressing his hope for all expert input towards the government.
“So, ladies and gentlemen, do not misunderstand; sometimes when I speak to an audience, my words are twisted, as if I do not respect experts. I have the utmost respect for experts. I cannot do anything—why did I succeed as an officer? Because I always seek out experts. Anyway, so please provide me with input on what we can do,” he concluded.