Prabowo Approves National Peat and Mangrove Management Agency

President Prabowo Subianto has agreed to the establishment of the National Peat and Mangrove Management Agency after receiving recommendations from scientists. The agency is prepared to handle the management of peat more integrally, including data, licensing, to fire prevention. Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto said the decision was made after the President discussed with scientists, professors, and researchers at the Presidential Palace Complex, Jakarta, Thursday, September 24. The experts come from a number of institutions and universities, including ITB, IPB, UI, BRIN, BMKG, BNPB, and involve the Ministry of Forestry and the Ministry of Agriculture. "One of the conclusions of this expert meeting is to recommend the establishment of the National Peat and Mangrove Management Agency. This was conveyed and the President agreed," said Brian. According to Brian, scientists assess the existence of a special institution is important so that data and management of peat areas do not run on their own. "Data, then the management permits carried out by one agency will be very easy, including in the end for various prevention," he said. The agency will also receive support from scientists and researchers. The results of the research that is already available will be used as a reference so that the same study is not repeated. However, the organization's structure, budget, and details of the agency's authority have not been determined. Brian said further discussion on the institutional structure would be carried out through the Minister of State Secretary. "The point is that this body will later manage and handle peat. The details will certainly come from Mr. Mensesneg who will discuss." According to Brian, the President also asked that research on peatlands continue so that the management of the area is not only focused on fire management, but also its proper use.