Prabowo Demands List of Corporations Involved in Forest Fires, Threatens HGU Permit Revocation

Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto is strengthening his stance in pursuing accountability for the frequent forest fires (Karhutla) occurring in Indonesia. He has demanded that relevant authorities submit a list of corporations allegedly involved in these fires. Furthermore, he indicated a willingness to take severe measures against these companies, including the revocation of their land use permits (HGU). Prabowo stated that the current situation has "gone too far," emphasizing the gravity of the issue. This statement suggests strong concerns about forest fires not only causing environmental destruction but also exacerbating air pollution and impacting economic activities. In Indonesia, forest fires are common, especially during the dry season, with intentional land clearing through burning, often for palm oil plantations and other development purposes, cited as one of the causes. HGU is a land use right granted by the government for agricultural or other development purposes, and its revocation would be a significant penalty directly impacting a company's business continuity. Minister Prabowo's firm stance this time may be based on the recognition that past responses to similar incidents have been insufficient, and it is seen as an aim to strengthen corporate oversight and promote a change in awareness towards environmental protection. Source: Sindonews