Prabowo Holds Karhutla Discussion with Experts, Orders Regulatory Review

President Prabowo Subianto convened a discussion with experts and academics at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta, focusing on strategies to combat forest and peatland fires (Karhutla), a persistent environmental challenge in Indonesia. During the session, President Prabowo presented three primary questions to the forum concerning the handling of Karhutla on peatlands. He particularly pointed to existing regulations, such as local bylaws in eight regencies that permit burning on areas up to two hectares, as "complete nonsense" and loopholes that facilitate fires. He ordered a thorough review and correction of such regulations. Prabowo also addressed the enforcement of regulations pertaining to companies. He stated that companies have obligations, including the requirement for a fire tower every five hectares, water reservoirs, and a firefighting team comprising their employees. While some companies comply, others do not, necessitating stricter oversight. "But now, primarily, ladies and gentlemen, as experts, please tell me, what is the best step for us to prevent fires in forest areas, first?" he asked. The President then touched upon Indonesia's vast peatland resources, posing questions about their potential for productive use. "Second, forest areas with peat. Two things. And third, what I request, advice from you all, can this peat be utilized productively? Can we plant crops on peat? I think these are the three most important questions I need from you as experts," he elaborated. President Prabowo emphasized his deep respect for experts, countering any potential misinterpretations of his statements. He stated, "So ladies and gentlemen, don't misunderstand when you receive it, sometimes when I speak to an audience, it gets twisted, saying as if I don't respect experts. I respect experts the most. Nothing is possible without them. Why was I successful as an officer? Because I always looked for experts. Anyway. So please give me input, what can we do." The discussion highlighted the government's intent to leverage expert knowledge in formulating effective policies to mitigate Karhutla and manage peatland resources.