Prabowo orders scientists, villagers involved in peatland agency

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5 hours ago

Jakarta (ANTARA) – President Prabowo Subianto has directed that scientists and local communities be involved in the operations of the planned National Peatland and Mangrove Management Agency (BPGMN), which will oversee Indonesia’s peatland and mangrove ecosystems.

Speaking after a cabinet meeting at the Presidential Palace Complex in Jakarta on Thursday, Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto said involving scientists was part of an effort to strengthen knowledge- and research-based policies for peatland management.

Brian said the president had agreed to the proposal to establish the agency after scientists demonstrated the need for a dedicated institution to manage the ecosystems.

“Having data and management permits handled by a single institution will significantly streamline processes, ultimately making various prevention efforts much easier to execute,” he told reporters.

Peatland management will be supported by more comprehensive mapping to identify land characteristics and potential, including areas suitable for crop cultivation, aquaculture, and other uses. The move is aimed at preventing recurring fires in peatland ecosystems.

The president also highlighted the importance of incorporating local knowledge and wisdom into peatland management, as well as involving local communities in fire prevention through the existing Fire Care Community (MPA) program.

According to studies presented by experts, residents living closest to affected areas play a critical role in providing rapid and effective initial responses.

Education is also a priority, including incorporating the importance of peatland preservation and fire prevention into schools and curriculum development.

Furthermore, Brian said the president had requested that research, studies, and assessments on peatlands continue to support their optimal management.

“Essentially, moving forward, Indonesia’s peatlands, which cover more than 33 million hectares, can be optimized,” he said.

Meanwhile, Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni said the establishment of the BPGMN aims to help prevent forest and land fires, particularly in peatland ecosystems.

He noted that the agency’s operations would be based at the village level to empower grassroots communities to take an active role in fire prevention.