EduAsiaNews, Palembang – Universitas Sriwijaya demonstrated its commitment to tackling forest and land fires (karhutla) by attending the Personnel and Equipment Preparedness Roll Call for Forest and Land Fire Management and Reactivation of the National Forest and Land Fire Desk 2026. The event was held at Griya Agung on Wednesday (6/5/2026).
The Secretary of Universitas Sriwijaya, Alfitri, attended the event alongside several students during the ceremony led directly by Djamari Chaniago, Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia. The event was also attended by various ministers and leaders of state institutions.
In his remarks, Djamari Chaniago emphasized the importance of cross-sector synergy in addressing the threat of forest and land fires. He stressed that mitigation efforts must be carried out earlier, in an integrated manner, and with greater focus on prevention rather than response.
The Coordinating Minister also expressed appreciation for the contribution of Universitas Sriwijaya in handling forest and land fires. The university’s active role has been demonstrated through research on sustainable peatland management conducted in collaboration with the Government of Ogan Komering Ilir Regency. This scientific approach is expected to produce more targeted prevention policies.
In addition, Universitas Sriwijaya has collaborated with the South Sumatra Regional Police and the Sumatra Regional Forest Fire Control Center in providing human resources, expertise, and educational campaigns on forest and land fire prevention. Other ongoing initiatives include tree planting programs and strengthening the capacity of rural communities through studies and training on fire control measures.
“I am proud of and deeply appreciate UNSRI for showing concern and taking direct action in helping to address forest and land fires,” said the Coordinating Minister.
According to predictions from the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), the dry season in South Sumatra began in May and is expected to peak in August. In response, the government has instructed increased preparedness in several high-risk regions, including Ogan Ilir Regency, Banyuasin Regency, Musi Banyuasin Regency, Muara Enim Regency, Lahat Regency, East Ogan Komering Ulu Regency, Musi Rawas Regency, North Musi Rawas Regency, and South Ogan Komering Ulu Regency.
The series of activities concluded with an integrated forest and land fire response simulation and an inspection of equipment to ensure that all resources were fully operational and ready for deployment.
