Prabowo praises collective efforts in tackling Riau forest and land fires
President Prabowo Subianto has expressed appreciation for the synergy shown by all parties in handling forest and land fires (karhutla) in Riau Province.
“I am truly pleased to see your handling of this. I think this is something good that we might note down to share with other regions as a model for handling. Your preventive measures are also quite good,” the President said during a meeting on forest and land fire management in Riau on Monday.
Prabowo assessed that the cooperation demonstrated by various elements was key to tackling forest and land fires. He commended the steps taken by the regional government, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the National Police (Polri), the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), and all civilian elements that moved in an integrated manner.
“This is teamwork, and I am pleased. After seeing your gotong royong, I am very happy. The TNI, Polri, BPBD, all channels, all elements of the regional government, civilians, everyone is moving. This is what we want. I thank you, and I am proud to carry out this activity,” he said.
The President stressed that the government would continue to support the needs for handling forest and land fires on the ground, including additional water-bombing helicopters and oxygen supplies. Prabowo also requested that the hard work of all parties be reported comprehensively.
“We must now respect hard work. Of course, later the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) and other channels will also be respected. Governor, thank you. So whatever we can help with, we will help,” the President said.
President Prabowo’s appreciation also underscored that handling forest and land fires is not solely about extinguishing fires when they appear, but requires collective strength in prevention, preparedness, law enforcement and sustained community involvement.
On the occasion, Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan outlined various measures undertaken, both through law enforcement and preventive approaches.
According to him, the Riau Regional Police have adopted a multi-door approach and installed law enforcement warning signs at former fire sites.
“Alhamdulillah, now after we have installed the signs, the signs are permanent, so former burn sites may no longer be used for planting,” he said.
Beyond law enforcement, synergy has also been realised through the construction of forest and land fire control infrastructure.
In addition, prevention efforts have been strengthened through public education, engagement down to the village level, joint patrols, readiness assemblies, the installation of banners and environmental restoration programmes.
“Our next strength is partnership or gotong royong, as we have conveyed. We issued a proclamation. Usually such proclamations on law enforcement are issued only by the Regional Police Chief, but last year we invited the Regional Leadership Coordination Forum and the Governor to jointly issue a proclamation on forest and land fire prevention,” Herry said.