During Eid Holiday, Forestry Ministry Intensifies Forest Patrols and Implements Zero Waste

For the Ministry of Forestry (Kemenhut), holidays are not just about tourism, but also about maintaining the balance between humans and nature. The Directorate General of Natural Resources and Ecosystem Conservation (KSDAE) is implementing security measures in all National Parks (TN) and Nature Tourism Parks (TWA). 

The primary focus is ensuring forest sustainability remains protected amidst increasing visitor numbers.

KSDAE Director General Satyawan Pudyatmoko stated that besides patrols, they have also prepared measures ranging from managing carrying capacity to implementing cashless payment systems. 

The ministry aims to ensure every visitor has a smooth and Safe Tourism experience.

"The use of digital technology like online booking has proven to significantly speed up services at entrances and reduce visitor crowds/density, thus maintaining our top priorities: the zero accident principle and visitor comfort," he said.

In the field, Technical Implementation Units (UPT) are not only increasing area patrols but also conducting waste patrols, an approach based on the zero waste principle. 

Forests are protected not only from threats of damage but also from the small traces left by humans.

Tourist Surge, A Challenge for Sustainability

Learning from previous Holiday periods, the pressure on conservation areas is significant. During the Nyepi and Eid al-Fitr holidays in 2025, 421,683 tourists visited TNs and TWAs across Indonesia.

The highest surge occurred three days after Eid. This number generated Rp15.8 billion in Non-Tax State Revenue (PNBP).

Mount Leuser, Mount Ciremai, Mount Rinjani, to Bukit Kaba became major magnets, especially for climbers seeking experience and adventure in one journey.

However, behind this popularity lies a major challenge: ensuring environmental carrying capacity is not exceeded.

Nature Tourism is Protected, Not Merely Visited

Therefore, the government implements special operational policies during the Eid al-Fitr Holiday 2026. Several Nature Tourism Attraction Sites (ODTWA) are opened selectively, while others are closed to preserve ecosystem sustainability.

This approach is not merely about restrictions, but a form of wiser management, ensuring nature can still be enjoyed without being sacrificed.

Reinforced patrols symbolize this philosophy. Officers are present not only as guards but also as reminders that every tourist's step has an impact.

Satyawan emphasized that the zero waste movement will continue to be strengthened through more intensive waste patrols. However, the success of this effort still depends on visitor awareness.