Aceh Military Chief Orders Increased Forest Fire Patrols Amid Dry Season

The chief of the Iskandar Muda Military Command (Pangdam IM), Major General TNI Joko Hadi Susilo, has called for enhanced patrols and monitoring in areas of Aceh prone to forest and land fires (karhutla). This directive comes as the dry season intensifies, increasing the threat of fires that can have severe consequences for the environment, public health, economy, and regional stability.

Pangdam IM emphasized that prevention and early detection are paramount. He stressed the need to strengthen patrols, educate the public, and maintain intensive communication with stakeholders down to the village level. Personnel are instructed to follow standard operating procedures, utilize available resources effectively, and report developments promptly to ensure swift response.

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Forest and land fires are one of the threats that can have serious impacts on the environment, public health, economy, and regional stability.

"Preparedness is demonstrated not only through the readiness of personnel and equipment but also through the ability of all elements to move quickly, accurately, coordinatedly, and in accordance with procedures when the situation develops in the field," Susilo stated in a written address. This heightened vigilance is particularly important as Aceh has already experienced numerous fire incidents.

Data from the Aceh Disaster Management Agency (BPBA) indicates at least 20 karhutla incidents occurred between January and May 2026, burning approximately 247 hectares. The threat persists into August, with Aceh Besar recording fires in nine locations on August 10, covering about 16.87 hectares, and an additional three hectares burning in Kuta Malaka the following day.

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Preparedness is demonstrated not only through the readiness of personnel and equipment but also through the ability of all elements to move quickly, accurately, coordinatedly, and in accordance with procedures when the situation develops in the field.