Prabowo Summons Experts for Forest Fire Mitigation Meeting

Prabowo Summons Experts for Forest Fire Mitigation Meeting

Reporter

September 24, 2026 | 02:29 pm

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - President Prabowo Subianto convened a limited meeting on forest and land fire mitigation at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Thursday, September 24, 2026. State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi stated that the gathering aimed to prevent the recurrence of wildfire disasters.

According to Prasetyo, these mitigation measures must target all sectors. “It is regrettable that incidents we are well aware of continue to recur,” Prasetyo told journalists on Thursday, September 24, 2026.

Prasetyo noted that several experts were called to join the meeting with President Prabowo. However, he declined to disclose the detailed identities of the attendees for the day’s gathering.

He stressed that public education is crucial in handling forest fires. “Education is vital because virtually all fires stem from human activities,” said the politician of the ruling party Gerindra.

Furthermore, Prasetyo stated that the President has directed his administration to facilitate land clearing without resorting to slash-and-burn practices. Wildfires triggered by land clearing using fire ultimately inflict far greater economic and environmental damage.

“The President has also instructed that if people wish to clear land, heavy machinery should be used. It’s better to report to the authorities, then assistance will be provided, and a specific budget will be allocated,” he said.

Prasetyo noted that wildfire mitigation must be pursued through multifaceted approaches, including early childhood education. The government is currently working to integrate fire mitigation concepts into local school curricula. “We requested its inclusion in local curricula and early religious education. Every possible effort must be made,” Prasetyo said.

In addition to educational outreach, Prasetyo stated that the government is preparing operational support equipment. The government has ordered specialized aircraft and various firefighting tools to strengthen response capabilities. “We have ordered Beriev-model aircraft and firefighting equipment,” Prasetyo said.

He highlighted the procurement of thousands of fire trucks conducted last year. In Prasetyo’s view, acquiring those vehicles has proven essential in meeting current emergency demands. “Fortunately, last year we moved decisively to purchase around 2,000 fire trucks, and they are proving vital right now,” he said.

Read: What to Know About Prabowo’s Free Education Task Force

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