Ministry of Forestry Clarifies Logging Permit Status in South Tapanuli

Denial of Recent Logging Permits

The Ministry of Forestry has officially denied issuing any logging permits in South Tapanuli since June 2025. This clarification comes in response to contradictory statements made by the South Tapanuli Regent, who claimed that the ministry had opened logging permits in the region in October 2025.

Comprehensive Evaluation Ordered

According to Laksmi Wijayanti, Director General of Sustainable Forest Management (PHL) at the Ministry, the Minister ordered a comprehensive evaluation of the Forest Product Administration Information System (SIPUHH) in June 2025. As a result, Wijayanti issued a directive (No. S.132/2025 dated June 23, 2025) to temporarily suspend SIPUHH services for all land rights holders.

Implications of the Temporary Suspension

The temporary suspension was implemented to facilitate a thorough assessment of the SIPUHH system. This move indicates the ministry's commitment to ensuring the proper management and regulation of forest products in Indonesia. The evaluation aims to address potential issues within the system and improve its overall effectiveness.