Prolonged wildfires across Indonesia have led to a sharp rise in respiratory illnesses and spread dangerous haze across several Southeast asian nations. Singapore and Malaysia have been among the worst affected over the past week.The worsening pollution has also heightened regional tensions, with officials raising concerns over Jakarta’s response to the fires and its reluctance to accept assistance from neighbouring countries.
What is causing the haze?
The haze is primarily caused by smoke and emissions from forest and peatland fires in Indonesia, particularly across Borneo and Sumatra. These islands have extensive forest cover and large peatland areas that become highly susceptible to fires during the dry season, which generally lasts from April to October.The region is also experiencing the effects of severe “super El Niño” conditions, which have intensified heat and dryness, allowing fires to spread more rapidly.Indonesia last witnessed fires of a comparable intensity in 2015, when similarly severe El Niño conditions contributed to widespread burning.
How extensive is the damage caused by the fires?
Official figures on the area affected by the fires have not been updated since July, when approximately 202,000 hectares, or around 500,000 acres, had reportedly burned.However, environmental organisation Auriga estimated that more than 637,000 hectares had been affected between January and August this year. The area is roughly nine times the size of Singapore.Deforestation monitoring platform Nusantara Atlas has reported an even higher estimate, placing the affected area at nearly 900,000 hectares.
How severe is the haze?
Data from fire emissions watch, a platform developed by the European union’s copernicus climate monitoring service, showed that Indonesia had recorded the world’s highest fire emissions for a month. The country accounted for nearly half of global fire emissions during the preceding seven days.Indonesia’s air pollution index recorded readings exceeding 1,000 in some parts of Borneo and Sumatra. Pollution levels of 300 or above are already classified as hazardous.Singapore also experienced a significant deterioration in air quality. On Wednesday, the one-hour PM2.5 concentration in the western part of the island reached 284 micrograms per cubic metre, entering the national environment agency’s “very high” category for the first time this year.The health impact has been substantial. Indonesian Health Ministry data showed that respiratory illness cases associated with the fires had climbed to 283,270 across seven provinces as of October 13. This was more than twice the 113,336 cases recorded on September 9.The haze has also disrupted daily life and transport. Numerous schools in Indonesia, neighbouring East Timor and several Malaysian states have been forced to close. In Indonesia, nearly 2,000 flights were affected between August 11 and October 12.
What measures is Indonesia taking to contain the fires?
The Indonesian government has maintained that it is taking extensive measures to control the fires.More than 60,000 personnel have been deployed for firefighting operations, while around 50 aircraft have been involved in water-bombing and cloud-seeding efforts.Jakarta also plans to recruit additional forest rangers to strengthen fire prevention and has pledged to rehabilitate peatland ecosystems. Peatland fires are particularly difficult to extinguish because they can continue smouldering underground for extended periods, even at relatively low temperatures.The government has also said it is taking action against businesses and individuals violating regulations, including restrictions on using fire to clear agricultural land.Police officials have indicated that 223 individuals and nine companies could face action over their alleged involvement in starting forest fires.
Why is Indonesia facing criticism?
Indonesia has faced mounting international pressure to strengthen its efforts to prevent fires and respond more effectively once they break out.Despite government restrictions, the practice of burning land to clear it for cultivation has continued. Rapid deforestation to expand agricultural production, particularly palm oil cultivation, has also increased fire risks. The loss of forest cover and the draining of underground water sources can leave the soil drier and more vulnerable to burning.Jakarta has also faced questions over its decision not to declare the situation a national disaster. Such a declaration could enable the government to mobilise resources more quickly.Its reluctance to accept assistance offered by Malaysia and Singapore has further fuelled criticism, as the haze continues to affect countries across the region.
How long could the fires and haze continue?
Indonesian authorities have warned that the situation is unlikely to be brought under control until the region receives sustained rainfall.The dry season began earlier than usual this year and has continued for longer than expected. Although rainfall typically starts in October, forecasts suggest the onset of the rainy season could be delayed until November.Indonesia’s weather agency has said the effects of El Niño could persist until the first quarter of 2027. However, the arrival of seasonal rains is expected to help reduce the intensity of the fires and limit their wider impact.
