Severe smoke haze from forest and peatland fires in Indonesia has triggered protests and a growing public-health emergency across parts of Southeast Asia, the Associated Press reported on October 23.
Indonesia’s Health Ministry recorded more than 333,470 cases of acute respiratory illness across seven affected provinces since mid-August. On Friday, more than 500 students protested in Palangkaraya, calling for stronger action and a national emergency declaration.
Land-clearing fires, dry conditions, extreme heat and an intensifying El Niño have compounded the crisis. The smoke has also affected neighbouring countries, including Singapore and Malaysia.
Environmental and health experts warn that the recurring haze requires stronger fire prevention, protection of peatlands and cooperation across national borders rather than short-term emergency measures alone.