InfoSAWIT, JAKARTA – Member of the Indonesian House of Representatives Commission IV, Firman Soebagyo, expressed his concern over the forest conversion plans announced by Minister of Forestry Raja Juli Antoni. Firman stated that this plan could threaten the sustainability of Indonesia's forests and the environment.
Firman's statement responded to the plan to use up to 20 million hectares of forest land to support national food and energy security. “In facing the threats of climate change, the existence of forests is crucial and must be preserved. Is there no other way to support food security without destroying forests and causing deforestation?” Firman said in a statement reported by InfoSAWIT on Friday (January 10, 2025).
According to the senior politician from the Golkar Party, forests are a source of life and an asset that must be passed on to future generations. He emphasized that efforts to increase food production should not come at the expense of the environment. “Extensification is not the solution. We should not always look for shortcuts. Intensification and the use of technology are more appropriate, as practiced by developed countries,” he added.
Firman also warned of the dangers of the Minister of Forestry's statements, which he believes could be misinterpreted by the public. He urged officials within the Ministry of Forestry to remind the minister to adhere to the ministry's primary duties and functions, which are to protect and preserve forests.
“The minister must understand the philosophy of forests and forestry. Read carefully Law No. 41 of 1999 on Forestry. The main task of the Ministry of Forestry is to protect forests, not to produce food,” he asserted.
Firman noted that the government's steps to achieve food self-sufficiency are commendable. However, he reminded the importance of an approach aligned with the concept of a green economy, often emphasized by President Prabowo Subianto in international forums. “The current global trend is green economy, carbon trading, and the use of technologies like vertical farming. Indonesia should lead in these efforts, not engage in deforestation,” Firman explained.
He also criticized the extensification approach as a form of laziness in seeking more creative and sustainable solutions. Firman hopes the government will focus on agricultural intensification by utilizing modern technology to increase productivity without harming the environment.
In closing his statement, Firman reminded that forests not only function as the lungs of the world but also as a lifeline for the Indonesian people. He urged the Minister of Forestry to strengthen the ministry's role as the frontline in forest protection and preservation while promoting policies that favor sustainable development.
“Forest sustainability is a legacy for future generations. Do not mortgage the nation's future for short-term interests,” Firman concluded.
The plan to convert forests for food security and energy remains a topic of debate among various stakeholders. Many hope the government will prioritize solutions that do not sacrifice forests as vital environmental assets. (T2)