Prabowo Issues Ultimatum to Corporations Responsible for Forest Fires: Once Strong Evidence is Found, I'll Revoke Their Permits!

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has firmly stated that he will revoke the licenses of corporations proven to have violated regulations and been involved in forest and land fires (karhutla).

Prabowo even instructed Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo to investigate corporations suspected of being responsible for the karhutla without hesitation.

He made this statement while attending the 28th anniversary celebration of PAN at the Jakarta Convention Center (JCC), Senayan, Jakarta, on Friday night (18/9/2026).

"I have given instructions: 'Police Chief, keep investigating. Don’t hesitate. Once you have strong evidence, report it to me.' I will revoke all their permits," he asserted.

Prabowo said that the Police Chief has reported 95 corporations suspected of violations and responsibility for the forest and land fires.

He emphasized that he is not reluctant to take action against these corporations.

"I have no hesitation because I am loyal to Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution," he said.

According to Prabowo, this enforcement action relates to the principles of natural resource management as stipulated in the constitution.

He underscored that the earth, water, and all resources contained therein are controlled by the state.

Previously, Prabowo expressed his sadness every time forest and land fires occur. Moreover, based on findings he has received, many of these fires were worsened by human actions.

"We are saddened every time these fires happen. It’s true. But we have found that many of these fires are exacerbated by certain humans," Prabowo said.

He then touched on allegations of violations that have persisted for decades.

"For decades, there have been false reports. They think they can outsmart the government of the Republic of Indonesia. Let’s see. Let’s see. Let’s test our strength," he added.