Stories: Communities

Land clearing using fire by independent farmers and individuals is still prevalent in many parts of Kalimantan. In order to reduce the number and intensity of fires in the areas in which we operate, Golden Agri-Resources (GAR) has been running its community fire-free programme since January 2016.

Previously known as Desa Siaga Api, the programme was expanded in early 2017 to not only include fire prevention and response, but also conservation and food security. The programme is now known as Desa Makmur Peduli Api, and through it, GAR works with the local government to provide village communities and indigenous groups living in fire-prone areas support and education, in order to minimise incidences of forest fires and haze. A total of eight villages from West Kalimantan and nine from Jambi have benefitted from the programme.

Check out some highlights of how Desa Makmur Peduli Api has impacted the eight villages in Ketapang, West Kalimantan, to date.

We also believe that women are powerful agents of change within their families and communities, and play an important role in educating those around them to prevent forest fires. Read more about our engagement with them here.