The Gunung Mas Regency Government, Central Kalimantan, has heightened vigilance against the threat of forest and land fires (karhutla) as the peak of the dry season approaches, which is predicted to last until the end of September 2026. This anticipatory measure was taken following the discovery of 242 hotspots that have burned approximately 121 hectares of land in the region over the past seven months.
This commitment to preparedness was reinforced during the Forest and Land Fire Disaster Preparedness Roll Call led directly by the Regent of Gunung Mas, Jaya Samaya Monong, in the courtyard of the Regent's Office, Kuala Kurun, on Wednesday (22/7/2026). The event included a direct inspection of personnel readiness, operational fleets, and the availability of firefighting equipment.
In his address, Regent Jaya Samaya Monong emphasized that preventive action or early prevention must be the top priority. According to him, solid coordination and synergy between the local government, security forces, and all elements of society are crucial in detecting hotspots before they spread into a major disaster.
Jaya also warned that this preparedness roll call should not merely be an annual ceremonial routine. This momentum must be used as an event for thorough evaluation to ensure all equipment and personnel are in prime condition and ready to be mobilized whenever needed in the field.
Furthermore, the Regent instructed the Forest and Land Fire Land Task Force (Satgas Darat Karhutla) to move quickly to extinguish fires as soon as early signs of fire are detected. Responsive handling is considered the main key to minimizing environmental damage and avoiding difficulties in extinguishing fires if they have already spread.
After leading the roll call, the Regent, along with members of the Regional Leadership Coordination Forum (Forkopimda), inspected the feasibility of forest fire control facilities. This important agenda was also attended by the Regional Secretary of Gunung Mas, Richard, regional assistants, heads of regional apparatus, down to the local sub-district and ward heads.
