RRI.CO.ID, Palembang - The government has emphasized the importance of early detection to prevent the spread of hotspots in wildfire-prone areas ahead of the peak of the 2026 dry season. South Sumatra remains a focus of concern due to its peatlands, which are highly flammable during prolonged droughts.

According to forecasts from the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), the dry season has been ongoing since April, with the El Niño phenomenon expected to intensify between July and September 2026.

As a precaution, a national preparedness drill was held in Palembang, South Sumatra, involving around 1,600 personnel from the Indonesian Military (TNI), the National Police (Polri), the Regional Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD), private-sector representatives, and the public.

“Wildfire control must be carried out earlier and in a more integrated manner. Prevention must be prioritized before the fire spreads,” Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago said in a written statement in Jakarta on Thursday, May 7, 2026.

The government has also reactivated the 2026 national coordination desk for wildfire mitigation, focusing on strengthening on-site monitoring, accelerating response efforts, and enforcing the law.

Although data from the Ministry of Forestry shows that the area affected by fires in South Sumatra continues to decline, the government has urged all parties to remain vigilant. Businesses are required to ensure personnel and firefighting equipment are ready in their operational areas.

APP Group, together with its supplier partners, has prepared a satellite-based monitoring system reinforced by drones, CCTV, and a 24-hour situation room. Its Integrated Fire Management strategy covers prevention, early detection, personnel readiness, and rapid on-site response.

“Wildfire prevention cannot be done alone. It requires collaboration between the government, the community, and all stakeholders,” APP Group Director Suhendra Wiriadinata said.

A total of 907 firefighting personnel have been deployed to high-risk areas, supported by helicopters and patrol vehicles. The government aims to prevent a surge in wildfires during this year’s dry season.

“We urge all parties to collaborate in preventing potential wildfires. Collaboration is key to addressing the challenges posed by El Niño,” Suhendra added. (Gusti Panji/Lasti Martina)