Prabowo Emphasizes Ground Troops' Crucial Role in Forest Fire Suppression

President Prabowo Subianto has urged the government to strengthen the readiness of ground troops and ensure the timely preparation of ponds and water pumps well before forest fires (Karhutla) occur. According to reports he received, ground personnel are considered the most effective in combating fires, despite the deployment of various equipment, including helicopters. Prabowo revealed this during a discussion with academics regarding peatland fires and the potential for forest fires at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Thursday, September 24, 2026. He stated that the government must anticipate fires early, rather than just preparing equipment when they appear. "It turns out that yesterday I received a report, with all kinds of helicopters, what is still the most effective is the officers on the ground," Prabowo said. Therefore, he requested that extinguishing facilities be prepared before a fire occurs, emphasizing the construction of ponds as a water source for officers. Water pumps must also be available and ready for use when needed. "The fire service must be ready. Long before the fire makes a pond, pond, pond. There is no fire to make a pump, pump, pump. Prepare all of that," the President instructed. He explained that this physical readiness is part of the steps to anticipate forest fires that occur almost every year. Simultaneously, Prabowo also seeks scientific input on handling peatland fires, asking academics to find approaches that can complement the readiness of officers and extinguishing equipment. He specifically inquired about the best steps to prevent fires in forest areas in general and peat forest areas. The President expressed hope that expert input will help the government prepare for fire management next year. Source: VOI English