APHI backs revision of 2-hectare land-clearing burn rule
The proposed revision to Law 32/2009 would close the local-wisdom exemption while preparing nonburn land-clearing options.
Asosiasi Pengusaha Hutan Indonesia supports the government's plan to revise rules allowing land clearing by burning up to two hectares per household head. APHI said the change is needed to strengthen prevention of forest and land fires and to provide legal certainty. APHI Chairman Soewarso said the review cannot focus only on land-area limits, but must also consider weather, land characteristics, water availability, and the readiness of fire-fighting equipment and personnel. The plan is linked to revisions to Law Number 32 of 2009 on Environmental Protection and Management, including a proposal to remove any room for land burning on the basis of local wisdom. Forestry and environmental law expert Sadino warned that the two-hectare provision is not a blanket permit to burn forests.