InfoSAWIT, TANJUNG SELOR – Haze caused by forest and land fires, which has affected air quality in Bulungan District, particularly in Tanjung Selor and surrounding areas, has prompted the Indonesian Palm Oil Association (GAPKI) North Kalimantan Branch to take action to help protect public health.
Through its GAPKI KALTARA PEDULI social program, the organization representing oil palm plantation companies distributed face masks through the Bulungan District Health Office. The assistance is intended to help residents cope with unhealthy air conditions caused by the haze.
As reported by InfoSAWIT based on an official statement received on Thursday (September 4, 2026), the mask distribution represents the business sector's concern for communities increasingly affected by the haze. The initiative also supports the local government's appeal regarding the use of face masks.
The policy is in line with a circular issued by the Bulungan Regent on August 20, 2026, Number 300.2.3/318/BPBD.II, concerning the use of face masks in response to the haze conditions.
The assistance was handed over on Thursday (September 3, 2026), at the Bulungan District Health Office. GAPKI Kaltara Chairman Hendra Lingtung, represented by other GAPKI officials, said the organization's involvement reflected the moral commitment of oil palm companies affiliated with GAPKI to stand alongside the community during the environmental disaster.
According to the organization, the business sector seeks to be present and support communities when environmental conditions affect their daily lives.
“This involvement is a moral commitment of the oil palm companies affiliated with GAPKI Kaltara to be present alongside the community amid the environmental disaster currently taking place,” the statement said.
Meanwhile, Acting Secretary of the Bulungan District Health Office Rustam Iwandi, SKM, MPH, representing the Head of the Bulungan District Health Office, expressed his appreciation for the assistance provided by GAPKI.
He confirmed that the masks received would be distributed to residents in need.
The initiative highlights the involvement of the oil palm industry in responding to the impact of haze, particularly in terms of protecting public health. Amid deteriorating air quality, the use of face masks is one of the protective measures also encouraged by the local government. (T2)
