Malaysia Offers Aid for Kalimantan Fires, Prabowo Expresses Gratitude

President Prabowo Subianto of Indonesia has accepted an offer of assistance from Malaysia to combat the ongoing forest fires in Kalimantan. The aid package includes one aircraft, three helicopters, and a firefighting team. The offer was extended by Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi during a meeting with President Prabowo in Hambalang, Bogor, on Friday, September 18. Malaysia had previously proposed sending one Bombardier aircraft, three helicopters, and 52 personnel to aid Indonesia's efforts against forest fires. "From the Malaysian side, they offered assistance to help us overcome forest fires in Kalimantan. I responded with gratitude, with joy," said President Prabowo. He also noted that Indonesia had received assistance from Japan and that several other countries had offered their support. President Prabowo emphasized that forest fires are not solely an Indonesian problem, as their impact extends to neighboring countries. "This is an environmental problem that affects many parties. Even though it is a fire in Indonesia, the impact is felt in our neighbors," he stated. Detailing Malaysia's contribution, Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid, standing beside President Prabowo, confirmed that one plane, three helicopters, and 52 personnel would be deployed. President Prabowo stated that the aid would be accepted and immediately put to use. "So they want to help us and we accept it well," he remarked. According to President Prabowo, similar assistance from Malaysia was also provided several years ago.