Full Breakdown
Indonesia's Forest Loss Surges Amid Self-Sufficiency Drive
3/31/2026, 12:15:41 PM
Alarming Increase in Deforestation Rates
In 2025, Indonesia experienced a significant surge in forest loss, with a reported increase of 66%, marking the highest rate in eight years. This alarming trend is attributed to weak environmental protections and President Prabowo Subianto's ambitious food and energy self-sufficiency initiatives. According to Auriga Nusantara, a think tank specializing in forestry and biodiversity, approximately 433,751 hectares (4,338 square kilometers) of forest were cleared, a stark rise from 261,575 hectares in 2024.
Key Drivers of Deforestation
The primary driver of this deforestation is the government's food security program, which aims to enhance domestic agricultural production and reduce reliance on imports. In 2025, the government allocated 20.6 million hectares of forest land for various programs related to food, energy, and water, with 43% of this area comprising natural forests. Notably, over 78,000 hectares of designated "food reserve forest" were cleared, equivalent to the size of New York City. Additionally, Prabowo's push for bioenergy led to the conversion of forest areas into industrial sites for biomass production, with another 37,910 hectares cleared within oil palm concessions. Furthermore, 41,162 hectares were transformed into concessions for coal, gold, and nickel extraction.
Impact on Biodiversity and Regions
The regions most affected by this deforestation include Borneo, Sumatra, and Papua, with Borneo experiencing the most rapid forest loss. East Kalimantan, where Indonesia's new capital is planned, was identified as the hardest-hit province. In Sumatra, three provinces—Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra—reported dramatic increases in deforestation rates, with increases of 426%, 281%, and 1,034%, respectively, compared to 2024.
Official Responses and Future Actions
In response to these concerning developments, Indonesia's Forestry Ministry has stated its commitment to strengthening measures to control deforestation. The ministry emphasized the importance of regularly evaluating strategic programs to ensure they do not compromise forest protection. Timer Manurung, chairman of Auriga Nusantara, highlighted the need for improved regulations to safeguard natural forests and expand conservation areas beyond designated forest estates. He warned that the upcoming dry season, exacerbated by El Niño, poses a heightened risk of forest and land fires.
Criticism of Current Policies
Critics argue that the current administration continues the policies of former President Joko Widodo, which have been characterized by national strategic projects and the Omnibus Law (Job Creation law) that weaken environmental protections. This ongoing trend raises concerns about the long-term sustainability of Indonesia's rich biodiversity and the health of its ecosystems.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The current presidency is continuing the pattern of former president Joko Widodo, which uses the so-called national strategic projects and Omnibus Law (Job Creation law) that weaken environmental protection,” — Timer Manurung, Chairman of Auriga Nusantara
- “This serves as a warning that must prompt corrective action, particularly as the upcoming dry season brought on by El Nino is likely to result in a high risk of forest and land fires,” — Timer Manurung, Chairman of Auriga Nusantara
- “The government continues to regularly evaluate all strategic programmes and ensure their implementation does not neglect forest protection,” — Indonesian Forestry Ministry Statement
