To prevent forest and land fires, the Ministry of Forestry provides 50 extension workers in North Sulawesi

MANADO, GARISBUMI.com – The Ministry of Forestry (Kemenhut) is strengthening the prevention of forest and land fires (karhutla) through education and community involvement. A total of 50 forestry instructors in North Sulawesi were equipped with effective communication skills, identification of vulnerable areas, as well as early detection and reporting of forest and land fires.

Strengthening this capacity took place during the 2026 Forestry Extension Technical Guidance in Manado, North Sulawesi, Thursday (8/10/2026). The activity raised the theme "The Role of Forestry Extension Officers in Controlling Forest and Land Fires".

Head of the Forestry Extension Center, Wahju Rudianto, said that extension agents have a strategic role because they interact directly with the community in their respective work areas. This closeness is an asset to build awareness and preparedness to face the threat of fire.

"Therefore, strengthening the capacity of extension workers is key in encouraging the prevention of forest and land fires through increasing awareness, preparedness and active community participation," said Wahju in his speech.

According to Wahju, the impact of forest and land fires is not limited to forest destruction and threats to biodiversity. Fires also affect air quality, public health, and social and economic activities.

Therefore, prevention and early detection need to be strengthened by involving the community, government, area managers and other stakeholders.