Deforestation exacerbating disasters from severe weather, climate change in Indonesia

Deadly flash floods and landslides hit West Sumatra in March, highlighting the impact of deforestation in Indonesia.

Although government officials attributed the floods to heavy rainfall, but environmental groups pointed to deforestation and environmental degradation intensifying severe weather effects, emphasizing the vital role of forests in mitigating extreme weather events.

Indonesia, with the world’s third-largest rainforest, has seen over 74 million hectares degraded since 1950. Concerns now persist as the government pushes forward with new mining and infrastructure projects, raising fears of continued environmental degradation.

Indonesia is home to the largest Muslim population in the world, with over 231 million Muslims, representing approximately 87% of the country’s total population.