Indonesia faces widespread forest and land fires

Indonesia is facing widespread forest and land fires (karhutla), with significant damage reported across several provinces. Data from the Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs indicates that between January and August 9, 2026, fires in six priority provinces burned approximately 48,889 hectares. West Kalimantan has recorded the largest area burned at over 28,680 hectares, followed by Riau. Overall, fires across the country have impacted roughly 107,000 hectares.

In South Kalimantan, fires have consumed at least 3,387 hectares across 13 districts, with over 5,600 fire spots identified. Authorities in Banjarmasin have mobilized 200 personnel from the police, military, and disaster management agencies to manage the situation and have warned that individuals intentionally setting fires will face criminal sanctions.

The environmental impact extends to wildlife; the BKSDA in Central Kalimantan is warning of increased human-wildlife conflict as animals like orangutans and bears flee smoke and flames to seek food and water in residential and plantation areas.