Prabowo Warns 95 Corporations Over Forest Fires, Permits on the Line

President Prabowo Subianto of Indonesia has issued a stern warning to 95 corporations suspected of involvement in forest and land fires (Karhutla), stating that their business permits could be revoked. This declaration follows a report submitted by the National Police Chief. Prabowo made these remarks on Friday, September 18, 2026, during the 28th anniversary celebration of the National Mandate Party (PAN) held at JICC Senayan in Jakarta. "The National Police Chief reported to me that there are 95 corporations with indications of violations, responsible for the fires," Prabowo stated. He further revealed that he has instructed the police to continue investigating companies suspected of involvement. "Once the evidence is strong, report it to me, and I will revoke all of their permits," he asserted. The President emphasized that the government does not wish for forest fires to be exacerbated by human and corporate actions. He also alluded to the practice of false reporting, which he claimed has been ongoing for decades. However, Prabowo stressed that enforcement will strictly depend on proof. The 95 corporations mentioned are currently classified as companies with "indications of violations" based on the National Police Chief's report. Indonesia has historically grappled with frequent forest and land fires, particularly during the dry season, leading to severe air pollution and economic losses. Practices such as illegal land clearing by corporations and the use of fire for land rehabilitation have been recurring issues.