Gov’t Establishes National Peatland and Mangrove Management Agency

President Prabowo Subianto Thursday (09/24) at the Merdeka Palace held a discussion with academics and experts on research-based strategies for managing peatlands and preventing and addressing peatland fires in Indonesia

Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto said scientists were involved to strengthen peatland-management policies through knowledge and research findings, and that the President decided during the meeting to establish the National Peatland and Mangrove Management Agency (BPGMN).

“The President agreed because, based on the scientists’ experience, such an agency is indeed crucial. Having data and management permits handled by a single institution will significantly streamline processes, ultimately making it easier to implement various preventive measures and other actions,” he explained.

According to the Minister, the President also directed that the agency be strengthened with the support of scientists and researchers, while peatland management would be supported by more comprehensive mapping to identify land characteristics and potential, including areas suitable for crop cultivation, fisheries, and other uses.

“The President also noted that insights and best practices rooted in local wisdom should serve as key references to ensure peatlands are managed and handled optimally,” he said.

In managing fires, the President also encouraged strengthening of village- and community-based approaches through Fire-Aware Communities (Masyarakat Peduli Api), noting that studies presented by experts show communities living closest to the affected areas play a critical role in delivering rapid and effective initial responses.

“Scientists also shared several best practices, such as the rapid deployment of pumps and calculations for aerial firefighting operations, which the President welcomed as references for the agency to be established soon,” Brian continued.

Educational aspects were also highlighted, including through schools and curriculum development on the importance of preserving peatlands and preventing fires. Furthermore, Brian added that the President called for continued research, studies, and assessments to support optimal peatland management in Indonesia.

“Going forward, Indonesia’s peatlands, which span more than 33 million hectares, should be optimized and utilized. On the one hand, they can produce suitable commodities; on the other hand, and more importantly, proper management can significantly improve fire prevention,” he concluded. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (YA/MEP)