Indonesia will not declare forest fires a national disaster for now

Indonesia has decided not to declare its ongoing forest and land fires a national disaster, despite the crisis continuing and parts of the country potentially going months without rainfall until November or December. Coordinating minister for political and security affairs, Dudung Abdurachman, stated this during a cabinet meeting chaired by President Prabowo Subianto, but clarified that this decision was made to ensure they are still capable of managing the crisis.

The offer of international assistance was not discussed, though concerns were raised about the transboundary haze affecting neighboring countries such as Malaysia. President Prabowo had directed firefighting efforts to focus on Tanjung Puting National Park and other regions in Central Kalimantan and South Sumatra, as the park is known for its orangutan conservation and rehabilitation programs.

The forestry minister also warned authorities to remain vigilant for another month and that the government was preparing to revoke permits of five to six more companies for fire-related violations, already taking action against 26 companies including forestry concession holders.