IPB University Forest Fire Professor Gives Proposal at The Global Fire Management Hub Plenary 2025
Prof Bambang Hero Saharjo as Executive Director of Regional Fire Management Resource Center Southeast Asia (RFMRC-SEA), Faculty of Forestry and Environment (Fahutan) IPB University attended the meeting of The Global Fire Management Hub Plenary in Rome, Italy (6/10-12).
In the meeting that brought together (Integrated Fire Management/IFM) experts, Prof Bambang proposed the need for increased activities after forest fires, especially the law enforcement aspect. He emphasized strict sanctions to hold perpetrators of forest fires responsible for the damage they have caused.
“Restoration activities or ecosystem recovery must also be prioritized to restore damaged environmental conditions. This step is important so that the ex-fire area does not experience further damage that is detrimental to humans and the environment,” said the figure who currently serves as Chairman of the Center for Disaster Studies at IPB University.
The first Global Fire Management Hub or ‘Fire Hub’ was launched in 2023 by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to bring together partners to strengthen the capacity of countries in integrated fire management.
“Fire Hub is a collaborative platform that brings together a global network of partners and stakeholders, strengthening the capacity of countries in implementing integrated fire management to reduce the various negative impacts of forest fires on livelihoods and landscapes,” he explained.
The professor explained that the Fire Hub emphasizes coordinated cross-sectoral policies and inclusive strategies that reflect realities on the ground, bridging science, tradition, and innovation for a safer and more resilient future.
“With the increasing threat of forest fires around the world, countries need to urgently shift their attention from reaction and response to fire prevention from the start,” Prof Bambang said.
In controlling forest fires, the Fire Hub’s focus includes 1) knowledge and data sharing, 2) capacity building, 3) empowering fire-resilient communities, 4) fire risk assessment and early warning, and 5) policy support.
“Through these focuses, the Fire Hub accelerates integrated fire management at the regional, national and community levels. The platform provides the best information and training to support countries in a coherent, comprehensive, and consistent manner,” Prof Bambang concluded. (*/Rz) (IAAS/LAN)
