Environment Minister Says 335 Companies in Kalimantan-Sumatra Threatened with Sealing

Indonesia's Minister of Environment, Jumhur Hidayat, has issued a stern warning to 335 companies holding concessions in areas affected by land fires across Kalimantan and Sumatra. He indicated that these companies could face sealing if they fail to manage their concessions responsibly and prevent fires.

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If these 335 companies even possibly have the intention to open land in an easy, cheap way, by burning, the consequences are clear in our law enforcement; there are fines to the state, there are recovery costs, and if the indications are strong that mens rea (malicious intent) is clear, it can be criminal.

Hidayat emphasized that companies must uphold their commitments to mitigate fire risks. He stated that verification processes are underway, and some companies with strong indications of "nakal" (naughtiness or malicious intent) have already been sealed. The minister warned that if evidence points to deliberate actions to open land through burning, a cheap and easy method, companies could face state fines, recovery costs, and even criminal charges.

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I warn again that the promise of concession owners to mitigate so that fires do not occur must still be pursued. We will verify after this, and there have been reports from several companies that are indeed strongly indicated as being naughty, we have sealed them.

In contrast to the broader warning, Riau province was commended for its effective fire mitigation strategies. During a visit to Kampar Regency, Hidayat noted that Riau had implemented good practices, including canal barriers and water reservoirs, ahead of the El Niño dry season. He praised the collaborative efforts of the government and the regional police, stating that Riau's fire mitigation is among the best, resulting in a significant decrease in fires compared to previous years.

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I see in Riau because the mitigation is good before this El Nino, there are canal barriers, preparation of reservoirs, and so on that the government and the Police Chief have worked hard for with 'Riau Bersinergi', Alhamdulillah from our data, Riau is included in the provinces whose mitigation is very good.

Hidayat suggested that Riau's success offers a valuable lesson for other provinces. The minister's remarks highlight the government's intensified efforts to combat land and forest fires, which have plagued Indonesia for years, causing severe haze and environmental damage.

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And the number of fires and so on has decreased significantly compared to previous years. So, I think this can be a lesson for everyone.