The first week of the TRAINING OF TRAINERS for Forest Fire Suppression in Peatland, held in IPB University of Indonesia, focused on two highly technical and transformative modules: Fire Behavior Analysis and Fire Simulation Exercises. These sessions were not simply academic but designed to help participants apply scientific knowledge to real-life situations and develop actionable strategies, particularly in challenging environments such as peatlands and steep terrains.
With participants from Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, and Timor-Leste, alongside expert instructors from France and IPB University, the training illustrated a powerful model of international collaboration tailored to regional needs.
Understanding Fire Behavior: The Science Behind the Flame
The Fire Behavior Analysis module delved into the fundamental factors that drive fire behavior fuel, weather, and topography led by Mr. Vincent PAIRAULT from France. The sessions presented three key fire spread types (topography-driven, wind-driven, and convective), introduced analytical tools like the Campbell Prediction System, and demonstrated how various environmental factors interact to shape forest fire dynamics.
Importantly, the training went beyond theory. Participants engaged in practical exercises designed to develop fire response strategies tailored to their national contexts. Working in teams, they applied fire behavior theory to design response plans, analyze case studies, and present scenario-based action proposals.
“Learning how fire behaves in different terrains helped me reframe how we approach peatland fires in Indonesia,” – Mr. Angga Andika from Indonesia
“We’ll explore ways to integrate this analysis framework into our ranger training programs,” – Ms. Farrah Salvena from Malaysia.
“I can now explain how fire spreads to others using science, not just experience,” – Mr. Benjamin Ngalawen from Philippines.
Participants from Timor-Leste, a country with limited firefighting infrastructure, found the module particularly relevant. They emphasized the value of low-tech but highly applicable frameworks in building national fire strategies.
Simulation in Action: Coordinated Response through Digital Exercises
Following the theory, the Fire Simulation Training, led by Mr. Christophe CHOSEROT and Mr. Quentin AUBERGER from France (VALABRE), placed participants in simulated forest fire scenarios, assigning them to roles such as field crew, information team, and command center officers. Through digital simulation tools, the module provided a hands-on experience of managing a forest fire event from the ground up.
This was not a typical classroom activity, it was a highly structured and realistic exercise. Using topographic maps and computer-based simulation software, participants navigated through virtual terrains to reach fire sites. They assessed real-time field conditions (weather, vegetation, fuel levels) and communicated their findings to the Command Center, which used the information to issue strategic suppression orders.
“It wasn’t just about reporting field data—it was about translating it into real-time decisions and resource deployment,” – Mr. Hairil Anwar from Indonesia.
“I’ve never worked with simulation tools this way. It helped me understand how a centralized command system can function in a crisis,” – Mr. MERLITO A. VILLAR from Philippines
The exercises highlighted the importance of communication protocols, data collection accuracy, and analytical thinking under pressure. For countries with limited access to firefighting technology, the module offered a blueprint for future investment and capacity building.
Shared Challenges, Shared Solutions
Across nationalities and roles, participants identified common constraints in their fire management systems:
- Limited access to drones, simulation tools, and satellite monitoring
- Lack of localized fire behavior data for peatlands and mountainous regions
- Under-resourced community preparedness programs
At the same time, they also identified shared opportunities:
- Integrating fire analysis into national fire officer and ranger training
- Developing mobile-friendly simulation apps tailored for Asia
- Expanding community-based early warning and suppression networks
- Promoting the practical use of GIS and remote sensing in field operations
From Knowledge to Field-Based Capacity
The fire behavior and simulation training has helped AFoCO Member Countries move from reactive firefighting to proactive, data-informed forest fire management. Participants left not just with knowledge, but with frameworks, tools, and confidence to implement better strategies in their own countries.
In the coming weeks, the training program will move further into Scenario-based fire management, peatland-specific suppression techniques, and regional coordination strategies, continuing to build on the strong foundation established through these core modules.
Through this shared vision, AFoCO remains committed to turning analysis into action and simulation into solutions across Asia.
Submitted by Kiwon Kim, Program Officer, Capacity-Building and Evaluation Team
