West Kalimantan faces 360 fire hotspots amid haze concerns

West Kalimantan is facing a significant threat from forest and land fires, with approximately 360 fire hotspots currently monitored across the province. The dry season has increased the risk of fires spreading through forests, agricultural lands, residential areas, and commercial centers.

West Kalimantan Deputy Governor Krisantus Kurniawan has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any fire spots immediately to prevent them from expanding. He noted that the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) is continuously monitoring the situation to mitigate the impact on public health and the environment.

Addressing the cause of the fires, Kurniawan criticized the tendency to blame local farmers, asserting that corporations are often responsible for land clearing that triggers fires. He stated that the provincial government will coordinate with law enforcement to take strict action against companies found violating regulations, which may include the evaluation or revocation of business licenses.