Indonesia has reactivated a peatland and mangrove agency with broader responsibilities and greater authority, as the country faces its worst wildfires in years.
President Prabowo Subianto has ordered the creation of the National Peatland and Mangrove Management Agency (BPGMN), which will report directly to him and manage permits for land use. The agency will focus on fire prevention and conservation in six provinces with significant peatland burning, including Jambi, South Sumatra, West Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan, and South Kalimantan. These regions have experienced large-scale peatland fires annually, contributing to Indonesia’s worst wildfire season in years. The new body will have broader responsibilities than its predecessor, the Peatland and Mangrove Restoration Agency (BRGM), which operated from 2016 to 2024 and focused more on restoration and prevention.
Environmental experts have welcomed the move, emphasizing the importance of peatlands and mangroves in storing carbon. Mismanagement of these ecosystems could have serious environmental consequences. However, the government has not yet released details on the agency’s structure, budget, or staffing. Officials have stated that the new body will be led by professionals with expertise in peatland and mangrove management. The decision comes as Indonesia faces increasing challenges from recurring wildfires, with official figures showing over 896,000 hectares burned by the end of August 2026, compared to 218,000 hectares in the same period in 2025.
Why it matters
The agency's expanded powers may help address immediate wildfire risks and environmental degradation.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
What to watch
Watch whether Indonesian Minister Raja Juli Antoni ensures the new agency hires professionals with peatland expertise.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.