Wildfires and Haze Trigger Health Crisis in Indonesia and Southeast Asia

Widespread forest and peatland fires in Indonesia have caused a surge in respiratory illnesses, affecting 12.5 million people across seven provinces. According to the Health Ministry, cases of acute respiratory infections in fire affected regions reached 113,336 by September 9, a figure that doubled from the 50,891 cases recorded on September 1. Children account for approximately 20 percent of these wildfire related illnesses. In Central Kalimantan, air quality in East Kotawaringin, Katingan, and Gunung Mas regencies reached hazardous levels, with Air Pollutant Standard Index readings of 750, 629, and 394 respectively. Readings above 300 are classified as hazardous to human health. The current wildfire season has been intensified by drier air and drought conditions caused by the El Niño climate phenomenon. Data from the Nusantara Atlas platform indicates that 895,657 hectares of land burned across the country between January and August, which is 34 percent higher than the same period in 2019. The fires are attributed to climate anomalies and agricultural burning by farming communities clearing land. The impact extends beyond Indonesia, with clinics in Sarawak reporting patients with labored breaths and watery eyes due to transboundary haze. Medical professionals warn that PM2.5 particles can cross into the bloodstream, potentially causing lung scarring, cardiovascular illness, and cancer. In response to the crisis, volunteer groups such as Power of Mama, an all female unit of roughly 150 Muslim women, work to battle blazes in the peatlands of West Kalimantan.