“This intensive effort reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the haze disaster, which has the potential to spread,” Thomas Nifflnuri, Director of Forest Fire Control at the Ministry of Forestry’s Directorate General of Law Enforcement, stated in Samarinda on Thursday.
He reported that during the period, satellites detected 66 hotspots across the province.
East Kalimantan is regarded as one of the regions that is most vulnerable to forest and land fires. It also hosts several national strategic projects, including the development of the new capital city, Nusantara.
This makes the province a benchmark for Indonesia’s ability to balance large-scale development with environmental preservation.
“Based on satellite image analysis up to May 2025, forest and land fires in East Kalimantan have affected a total area of 331.96 hectares,” Thomas remarked.
To strengthen prevention efforts, the central and local governments held a Fire Prevention Roll Call and Jamboree at the Special Purpose Forest Area (KHDTK) of Mulawarman University in Samarinda from August 6 to 8, 2025, under the theme “United for a Smoke-Free East Kalimantan.”
During his working visit to the province, Deputy Minister of Forestry Sulaiman Umar Siddiq emphasized that strong collaboration is key to successful fire management.
“The success of forest fire control lies in synergy between the central and regional governments, the private sector, and the community,” he stated.
He stressed that prevention should be the top priority, as it is more effective and cost-efficient than extinguishing fires.
“Prevention is less costly and helps preserve nature. That is why the use of technology, such as satellite imagery and drone patrols, must be optimized,” Sulaiman stated.
He also highlighted the importance of preparedness in personnel and equipment, as well as active community involvement. Education and empowerment programs for fire-aware community groups, involving traditional and religious leaders, must continue to be strengthened.
“Fire can destroy a forest in a day, but it takes decades to grow it back. Hence, anyone who prevents fire today is saving future generations,” Umar affirmed.
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Translator: Primayanti
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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