The role of indigenous peoples (LMA) in the control of forest and land fires in Merauke

Abstract

Environmental damage resulting from forest fires and land becomes a national central issue for most regions in Indonesia. Forest fires and land carries with it the smoke disaster impact on health, social, culture, economy and society. The purpose of the study to analyze the role of indigenous peoples in Merauke in forest fire prevention efforts and land at Merauke. This study uses qualitative methods with the descriptive approach; engineering data retrieval was observed against the actual conditions that occur in the field, and juxtaposed with the literature review. Data analysis was in the form of data reduction, data presentation, and data conclusions verification. Research results showed indigenous peoples (LMA) in Merauke hasn’t run their role in controlling forest and land fires in Merauke. It could cause damage to the environment, as well as the impact as the forest is a source for life of the people, and as a ceremonial symbol for indigenous people. This fact justified for the need for local cultural wisdom Sasi interference in the process of prevention and control of forest fires and land in Merauke. Also required indigenous community such as MAPA and KASK to be more caring to the existing natural environment (forest and land) as a source of livelihood of the community.