Why a 15-year-old Indonesian boy put on a Superman costume to fight wildfires

“After school, I just like to help out rather than staying home and playing on my phone. I would rather join the firefighting crew because this is my home,” he added.

Rudiyansah’s father, Mulyadi, said his son has become familiar with firefighting operations through his experience accompanying the crew. “My son understands these operations because after school, with nothing to do, he just joins us to fight fires. So he knows what to do,” Mulyadi said.

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Social media reaction

The teenager’s unusual choice of attire has drawn attention online, prompting a wave of reactions. Several users called him an inspiration.

“It’s truly inspiring how Indonesian citizens seamlessly step in to handle things, saving the government from the heavy burden of doing their actual job,” a user wrote. “By using a costume, he brings more attention to the forest fire and also awareness for those living somewhere else. Well done,” another user commented.

“This Superman is far way better than the Subiantoman (President of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto) itself,” a third user reacted.

According to a report by The Guardian, Indonesia recorded more than three times as many forest fire hotspots in the first 13 days of August as it did throughout August last year. This comes after a record number of fires between January and July. Authorities have urged people not to start fires and remain alert, as the fire season usually peaks in September and October.