Prabowo Leads Wildfire Meeting, Proposes Tuber-Based Fire Suppressant

President Prabowo Subianto is taking a hands-on approach to Indonesia's persistent wildfire problem. On Monday, August 24, 2026, he led a meeting on the fire situation in Palembang, South Sumatra, after inspecting blazes in Riau. He offered additional assistance to agencies battling the fires and was informed that South Sumatra Police had handled 15 cases, leading to 17 suspects.

In a novel approach, Prabowo suggested developing a fire suppressant from tuber-based flour. He inquired about alternatives to water during the coordination meeting, signaling a search for more effective methods to combat the widespread fires.

“

If you need additional assistance, report it immediately.

Meanwhile, the Jakarta Police addressed unrelated claims of an attempted arrest. Commissioner Budi Hermanto denied that Supriyono, known as Botok and coordinator of the Pati United Community Alliance, was arrested or detained. Botok and his group were protesting for the Asset Seizure Bill at the parliament building. Police stated they had communicated with Botok about the planned protest.

“

Mr. Supriyono alias Botok was neither arrested nor detained by the police.