Indonesia issues Presidential Instruction to ban land clearing by burning

The Indonesian government has issued Presidential Instruction (Inpres) Number 11 of 2026 to strengthen the enforcement of bans on land clearing through burning and to improve forest and land fire (karhutla) control. The directive mandates coordinated actions among ministries, agencies, and local governments to prevent fires.

Key provisions of the instruction include reaffirming the ban on burning for land clearing, ensuring no local or central government policies legalize such practices, and strictly regulating exceptions based on local wisdom. These exceptions can only be applied after local leaders declare emergency response periods have concluded.

Industry groups, including the Indonesian Palm Oil Association (GAPKI) and the Indonesian Forest Entrepreneurs Association (APHI), have expressed support for the policy, noting its importance for economic sustainability and fire prevention during El Nino conditions. APHI emphasized that the regulation provides a necessary foundation for unified action across all sectors.

In West Java, the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has urged citizens to adopt safer land management methods, such as manual clearing or mechanical tools, to avoid the risks of fire. As of late August 2026, West Java reported 228.07 hectares of burned land across 178 villages, with significant areas affected in Sukabumi, Majalengka, and Bandung.