First Resources blames El Niño as fires reach Indonesian plantations

Some fires started outside its operating areas and could not be fully contained.

First Resources Limited confirmed that fires had spread into areas under its management in West Kalimantan, Indonesia, citing severe El Niño-related drought as a major factor behind heightened fire risks.

The group said in a filing dated 15 October that prolonged dry conditions had increased the risk of fires spreading across surrounding lands and escalating into uncontrolled wildfires.

It added that plantations near concession boundaries, community-owned lands, and unmanaged areas faced higher fire risks.

"The presence of hotspots within a concession should not, in itself, be interpreted as an indication that the concession holder caused, initiated or condoned a fire," First Resources said.

Meanwhile, the group said it conducts daily satellite monitoring, drone surveillance, and ground patrols to manage fire risks.

Its firefighting teams have been stationed near plantation boundaries to support suppression efforts and coordinate with neighbouring companies.

First Resources said it had distributed 17 sets of water pump units to affected villages and provided thousands of masks to local education offices for distribution to schools.

“The group will continue working closely with relevant authorities, local communities, and other stakeholders to mitigate fire risks and support suppression efforts,” it added.

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