Indonesian Forestry Group Backs Prabowo's Move to Revise Land-Burning Rules

The Indonesian Forest Entrepreneurs Association (APHI) endorses President Prabowo Subianto's proposal to revise land-burning regulations to curb forest and land fires. APHI Chairman Soewarso emphasized the importance of this revision, stating that the current regulations still contain loopholes that allow land burning. He noted that fire knows no boundaries, both administrative and geographical, and needs strong supervision, law enforcement, and support for no-burn land-clearing methods.

APHI believes that the President's focus on the two-hectare land-burning rule should prompt a reevaluation of fire prevention policies. Soewarso stressed that simply ensuring firefighting readiness is not enough; land and water management, as well as community support, must also be strengthened to prevent burning as a method of land clearing.

He urged the reform to align central and regional policies, providing clear guidance for public, local governments, and business operators. APHI hopes President Prabowo's directive will stimulate comprehensive forest and land fire prevention efforts, including regulatory improvements and alternatives to slash-and-burn land clearing.