REA Initiates Joint Fire Prevention Coordination in Tabang

Kembang Janggut, East Kalimantan, August 22, 2026 – PT REA Kaltim Plantations initiated a coordination meeting on 22 August 2026 to strengthen the prevention of forest and land fires in Tabang District, Kutai Kartanegara.

The meeting brought together the Tabang District Government, village heads, customary leaders, local communities, the police and representatives from companies operating in the surrounding area.

Mika Asri Selian, Head of Sustainability at REA, emphasised that early prevention and engagement with local communities are more effective than responding after land has already burned. He encouraged companies and communities across Tabang to work together and avoid the use of fire for land clearing.

Head of Tabang District Asmi Riyandi Elvandra highlighted the importance of communication and coordination among companies, government agencies and communities to strengthen local preparedness for forest and land fires.

Chief of Tabang Sector Police Iptu Yohan Lihu also outlined the wider consequences of uncontrolled fires, including health risks from smoke, damage to ecosystems and wildlife, economic losses and disruption to transportation due to reduced visibility.

The meeting resulted in several agreed actions:

• Establishing two fire-response posts covering the upstream and downstream areas, coordinated by the respective village heads
• Coordinating the availability of firefighting equipment from companies operating in the area
• Installing fire-prevention information at strategic locations
• Strengthening community awareness through local communication channels, including places of worship

The two fire-response posts will provide a clearer coordination structure for each area, supported by equipment and resources made available by local companies.

This joint approach supports REA’s Forest Conservation and Climate Action pillars and strengthens local readiness to prevent and respond to forest and land fires across Tabang.