Indonesia bans land burning as wildfires rage

Indonesian Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has ordered regional leaders to ban all forms of land burning. The instruction comes as wildfires continue to spread across the country. Land burning is often used to clear farmland quickly and cheaply. However, it can easily spread out of control, especially during dry seasons, causing widespread fires and dangerous air pollution. The minister's directive calls on local governments to enforce the ban strictly. Regional leaders are expected to monitor their areas and take action against anyone who violates the rule. The move aims to reduce the number of fires and protect public health and the environment.