Enviro News Asia, Pekanbaru – The Minister of Forestry of the Republic of Indonesia, Raja Juli Antoni, conducted a direct inspection of forest and land fires in Riau Province on Wednesday (July 23, 2025).
The Minister carried out an aerial survey by helicopter to observe the fire hotspots and map out future preventive measures.
Following the inspection, the Minister stated that the number of fire hotspots had generally decreased compared to previous periods.
However, he emphasized the importance of remaining alert to extreme weather and the potential for further fires, especially in light of warnings from the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) regarding extremely high levels of dryness.
“This is also a form of anticipation of what we need to do. But in general, the number of hotspots has decreased,” said Minister Raja Antoni in his official statement.
On that occasion, the Minister of Forestry also issued a stern warning to parties still engaging in illegal forest or land burning.
“Don’t play with fire. You’ll be seriously arrested,” he warned, echoing a statement made by the Riau Police Chief who accompanied him during the inspection.
Currently, Joint Patrols involving Manggala Agni personnel, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the National Police (POLRI), and Community Fire Watch Groups (MPA) are being carried out from nine village-based posts in the districts of Bengkalis, Dumai City, Indragiri Hilir, Kampar, Kepulauan Meranti, Pelalawan, and Siak. Independent patrols by Manggala Agni are also ongoing in 19 village posts across Bengkalis, Dumai City, and Indragiri Hilir.
The Weather Modification Operation (WMO), carried out by the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), BMKG, and private sector partners, is another key measure to reduce the risk of peatland drought.
As of now, two phases of the operation have been completed, consisting of 14 sorties, with 12,600 kg of salt (NaCl) dispersed into the clouds.
Further weather modification operations will continue not only in Riau but also in other provinces such as South Sumatra, Jambi, West Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan, South Kalimantan, and East Kalimantan.
“There has been a decrease in the number of hotspots in Riau. From 1,300 on July 16, we’re now down to around 116,” explained Forestry Minister Raja Antoni. (*)
