"I call for the application of law enforcement measures without compromise. The National Police chief knows what to do. We have done it before," the head of state noted while giving instructions to participants of the 2021 National Coordination Meeting for Forest and Land Fire Control at the State Palace here on Monday.
The head of state emphasized that anyone, who sets fire to forests, will face legal repercussions, with strict sanctions slapped by the civil and criminal administration.
Related news: Fires destroy 55 hectares of land, forests in Riau
"Do not let it bring shame upon us at ASEAN meetings. I order this. We are ashamed, as (they might) think we cannot solve this problem," the president stressed.
Widodo also spoke of adhering to his policy to replace regional military and police commanders if they fail to prevent or put out forest fires in their regions.
In the past, Indonesia was frequently hit by forest fires, whose haze spread to neighboring countries, such as Malaysia and Singapore. Related news: Aceh Police detain illegal logger in Mt Leuser national park area
Translator: Rangga PAJ, Fardah
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2021
