RRI.CO.ID, Pontianak- The Indonesian government prioritizes forest and land fire control amid rising wildfire risks across Indonesia this year. The Environment Minister, Hanif Faisol Nurofiq , made the statement in a press statement on Thursday, April 16, 2026.

The minister affirmed that prevention must become the primary strategy in addressing wildfire risks nationwide. “We must no longer be reactive, prevention must become the frontline because that is the key to controlling forest fires while contributing to emissions reduction,” Hanif stated.

As of early April 2026, hotspot numbers reached 3,563, showing faster increases than previous years. Riau and West Kalimantan remain the most vulnerable regions facing heightened wildfire risks.

In West Kalimantan, 14 districts and cities are categorized as wildfire-prone with 463 high-risk villages. Most of these areas are located on peatlands, increasing vulnerability to fires without proper mitigation efforts.

Groundwater levels in Pontianak, Singkawang, and Kubu Raya indicate critical dryness conditions. Levels between minus 80 to minus 40 centimeters signal peatlands are highly susceptible to ignition.

Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) forecasted peak dry season in West Kalimantan between June and August 2026. Early preparedness measures are therefore essential to reduce wildfire risks during the upcoming dry season period.

The prevention measures the government had carried out was public education to discourage land burning practices. Additional measures include canal blocking, peatland restoration, and intensive monitoring of hotspots and weather conditions.

Meanwhile, Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs, Djamari Chaniago, affirmed the manpower, infrastructure, and funding support must be readied for quick response capabilities. Law enforcement against perpetrators of forest burning will be implemented firmly and consistently without exception.

All the prevention measures are in line with President Prabowo Subianto's instruction. It is to prioritize prevention as a permanent solution as well as to support the achievement of emission reduction and Net Zero Emission 2060.