In a statement received here on Saturday, Minister Antoni expressed deep condolences for the disasters in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra.
He noted that public attention on these events offers an important moment for introspection, highlighting fundamental mistakes in environmental management.
“We have a good moment because all eyes are watching, all ears are listening, and we all feel what is happening. Hopefully, it does not spread to other areas,” Antoni said.
His statement aligns with President Prabowo Subianto’s remarks that uncontrolled illegal logging significantly contributes to disasters.
“On one hand, we express our deepest condolences, but this is also a right momentum to evaluate policies. The balance between economy and ecology has tended toward economy, and it must be brought back to the center,” he explained.
During a visit to Riau, Antoni said the government is taking concrete steps beyond mere evaluation. In Kuantan Singingi District, Riau, he handed over a decree recognizing Indigenous Forests, strengthening the rights of local communities.
“Indigenous communities have long been marginalized, yet they are best able to protect the forests. This legal recognition gives more room for them to contribute,” he explained.
He also visited Tesso Nilo National Park, continuing restoration efforts to ensure the habitat of Sumatran elephants, such as Domang and his family, remains undisturbed.
Antoni stressed that resolution measures taken in Riau will also be applied to other affected regions.
The government is committed to improving forest management comprehensively in response to the recent disasters, he added.
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Translator: Prisca, Kenzu
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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