PALMOILMAGAZINE, JAKARTA – The Indonesian Sustainable Palm Oil Farmers Forum (FORTASBI) has urged independent oil palm smallholders to heighten vigilance ahead of the 2026 dry season, which is forecast to arrive earlier and be drier than usual.
According to FORTASBI, analysis from Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) indicates that this year’s dry season could increase the risk of land fires, particularly during the second half of the year.
FORTASBI Chairman Sutiyana stressed the importance of early mitigation measures to prevent fires in independent smallholder plantation areas.
Also Read: RSI Calls for Stronger Farmer Institutions to Speed Up Palm Oil Replanting Program
“By taking preventive action, we can avoid fires that may damage the reputation of independent oil palm plantations,” he said.
He noted that implementing the principles and criteria of sustainable palm oil certification remains a key factor in reducing fire risks. Farmers who consistently apply good cultivation practices are considered less likely to rely on land-clearing by burning.
“The key is discipline in land monitoring and the consistent implementation of Good Agricultural Practices,” he explained.
Also Read: Agrinas Palma Pushes Faster Replanting Program as Smallholder Productivity Becomes Key Priority
Sutiyana added that most independent smallholders affiliated with FORTASBI already have experience in dealing with prolonged dry seasons, including carrying out fire prevention measures. However, stronger and more consistent internal monitoring systems are still needed.
“Hopefully, through effective internal control, there will be no fires on smallholders’ oil palm land,” he added.
FORTASBI hopes that through stronger preparedness and sustainable farming practices, independent oil palm growers can maintain productivity while protecting the environment from increasing fire threats amid more challenging climate conditions. (P2)
