Amid the thick smoke and efforts to extinguish forest and land fires (Karhutla), concern has emerged in a simple yet meaningful form. Universitas Terbuka (UT) Palangka Raya, through the UT Peduli social initiative, distributed logistical supplies and health equipment to Karhutla firefighting volunteers while also distributing masks to the community.
The action took place on September 14–15, 2026, involving Perempuan Mandiri Tangguh (Permata UT) Palangka Raya, which consists of female staff members and the wives of UT employees. The assistance was delivered directly to volunteers working at several fire sites, including Hiu Putih Ujung, Tangkiling, Kelampangan, and Tumbang Nusa.
The assistance addressed various needs in the field, including vitamins, bottled water, isotonic drinks, KN95 masks, packaged oxygen canisters, biscuits or supplementary food, and first-aid equipment.
Director of UT Palangka Raya, Hariyadi, S.P., M.P., said the action was a concrete step by UT to support volunteers on the front lines of Karhutla response while also helping protect the health of the surrounding community.
“Volunteers in the field are working very hard through the smoke and flames. Through the packaged oxygen, first-aid equipment, vitamins, and medical masks, we hope to support the volunteers’ stamina and safety while they are on duty,” he said.
UT Palangka Raya’s concern did not stop with assistance for volunteers. The general public also became part of the UT Peduli initiative. Members of Permata UT went directly to the road in front of the UT Palangka Raya Office to distribute KN95 masks free of charge to road users and passing motorists.
The mask distribution was carried out as part of efforts to help residents reduce their exposure to smoke while carrying out activities outdoors. In a warm atmosphere, members of Permata UT greeted motorists while also reminding them of the importance of maintaining their health and wearing masks when engaging in outdoor activities.
The initiative is in line with the spirit of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-Being, particularly efforts to protect public health amid environmental conditions that pose risks.
Through UT Peduli, UT Palangka Raya demonstrates that the role of a higher education institution extends beyond educational activities. When volunteers are working in the field and communities are facing exposure to smoke, support can come in simple forms: health equipment, logistical supplies, and masks for residents. Through these efforts, UT Palangka Raya seeks to be present and help strengthen the community amid the emergency situation.
