Indonesia Issues Urgent Fire Prevention Orders Amid Air Quality Decline

Indonesia's Ministry of Environment and Forestry has issued urgent directives to the governors of six provinces in Sumatra and Kalimantan, demanding intensified measures against forest and land fires (karhutla) and a response to deteriorating air quality. The instructions focus on protecting public safety in Riau, South Sumatra, Central Kalimantan, West Kalimantan, Jambi, and South Kalimantan.

The current strong El Niño phenomenon, which has been affecting Indonesia since July 2026, is cited as the main cause for the heightened vulnerability to karhutla. This has led to a significant decline in air quality in several of these regions. Recent monitoring data reveals concerning levels of PM2.5 concentration, with Kampar (Riau) at 48.84 micrograms per cubic meter, Ogan Ilir (South Sumatra) at 47.39, and Katingan (Central Kalimantan) at 30.16. Other areas like Jambi City, Pontianak, and Banjarmasin also reported elevated levels, with most exceeding ambient air quality standards and entering the 'unhealthy' category for the public.

These urgent instructions align with a ministerial decree prohibiting land clearing by burning. The provincial governments are now mandated to implement massive prevention actions, intensify integrated joint patrols, closely monitor groundwater levels in peatlands, conduct wetting of vulnerable land, and establish canal blockades. The Ministry of Environment and Forestry also requested the activation of karhutla control posts and the maximization of firefighting personnel and equipment readiness.

Furthermore, the ministry emphasized the need for regular evaluation of air quality monitoring station data. Residents in affected areas are advised to reduce outdoor activities, wear masks, maintain indoor air circulation, and seek medical attention if experiencing respiratory problems. The Ministry of Environment and Forestry has pledged strict oversight and severe legal sanctions, including administrative penalties, fines, and criminal charges, against any parties found violating the prohibition on land burning.