Sime Darby Plantation today stressed that there are no fires in any of its operating areas in Indonesia, and it has strictly adhered to its zero burning policy in its operation.

“Current reports of hot spots in Riau included an area within PT Tunggal Mitra Plantation’s (PT MTP, a subsidary of PT Minamas Gemilang, one of its companies) concession area,” it said in a three-paragraph statement in Kuala Lumpur today.

It said the total concession area of PT MTP is 13,836 hectares, and the total planted area covers 10,825 hectares with 537 hectares consisting of nurseries and development areas with buildings, nurseries, roads and bridges.

“Some 2,470 hectares are occupied by local communities. PT MTP is unable to exert control over activities beyond its operating areas and where they are occupied by others,” it said.

Nevertheless, PT MTP will continue to monitor the situation, cooperate with local authorities, and assist with its fire prevention teams to ensure that any hazards are managed appropriately, it said.

Yesterday, the Prime Minister’s Office in a statement urged Malaysian-owned companies operating in Indonesia to abide by all local laws and regulations, and ensure they do not contribute to environmental degradation.

- Bernama