Jakarta:Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is set to engage in technical discussions with Malaysia's National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) regarding Malaysia's offer of assistance in combating forest and land fires within Indonesia.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the discussions will focus on various logistical and operational aspects, including the suitability of Malaysia's assistance, deployment readiness, and aviation safety procedures. The talks, facilitated by Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry, will also consider alternative support in case of adverse conditions such as thick smoke and poor visibility that may affect aerial operations.

BNPB Disaster Data, Information and Communication Centre acting head Berton Panjaitan stated that the coordination effort stems from a recent meeting between BNPB chief Lt Gen Kristomei Sianturi and Malaysia’s Ambassador-designate to Indonesia, Datuk Muzafar Shah Mustafa. The assistance offered by Malaysia includes one CL-415MP amphibious aircraft, one Mi-171 helicopter, and 44 personnel, consisting of crew members and technicians.

Berton further noted that both countries are exploring technological cooperation in areas such as early warning systems, data analysis, and firefighting strategies. Despite the international assistance, operational control will remain under the Indonesian government to ensure alignment with the country's disaster response requirements and regulations.

As of October 25, Indonesia has deployed 71,878 ground personnel and 63 aircraft, including 39 water-bombing helicopters and 24 aircraft for patrols and weather modification operations.