Indonesian Fires Prompt Hazardous Haze in Malaysian Borneo

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – A thick blanket of smoke from forest and peatland fires in Indonesia has enveloped parts of Malaysian Borneo, leading to critically poor air quality and a surge in health issues across the region. The haze, originating mainly from Kalimantan in Indonesia, has persisted throughout August, marking the worst air pollution crisis since 2015, which similarly affected millions.

Six areas in Sarawak recorded alarming air quality levels on Tuesday, with the Air Pollutant Index soaring beyond hazardous thresholds. Kuching, the state capital, registered a staggering 407, while Serian reached an even higher 408. Residents are feeling the impact acutely, as respiratory ailments rise sharply. Mia Emylia Hassan, a mother of two in Kuching, described her home’s air quality as stifling. "The air here is very thick," she stated, noting that visibility had plummeted to about a kilometer. Her 10-month-old daughter has been particularly affected, necessitating multiple emergency room visits due to breathing difficulties.

In response to the deteriorating situation, Malaysia's Ministry of Health reported a significant increase in respiratory illnesses. Asthma cases surged to 1,811 in the last week of August, a stark rise from just 219 the week prior. Similar trends were observed in cases of conjunctivitis. In the peninsular region, Karen-Michaela Tan, an asthma sufferer, noted that she experienced severe wheezing and breathlessness, despite using air purifiers and medications.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has issued its highest transboundary haze alert, signaling the severe risk posed by the ongoing fires. The alert comes as the El Niño weather phenomenon exacerbates the dry conditions fueling the fires, with Malaysian authorities warning of potential emergency measures should air quality deteriorate further. Sarawak has already canceled outdoor Independence Day celebrations scheduled for Monday, and officials have indicated that stricter restrictions could follow if air quality worsens.

Schools have been significantly impacted, with nearly 600 institutions in and around Kuching forced to close on August 20 and 21 due to high pollution levels, affecting approximately 200,000 students. More closures followed, impacting thousands of children as outdoor activities were suspended under Ministry of Education guidelines.

In Kuala Lumpur, the haze disrupted daily life and youth sports, with many training sessions and matches canceled. Coach Yap Kai Jinn expressed concerns for player safety, stating the club is seeking enclosed areas for practice while waiting for improved weather conditions.

Health officials reported that around 13,500 individuals received treatment for respiratory issues in July and August, with millions in Borneo and Sumatra exposed to the hazardous smoke. Fires in Indonesia have consumed over 200,000 hectares from January to July, with 95,000 hectares burned in July alone. Despite firefighting efforts, the situation remains dire as new hotspots emerge.

Researchers warn that the combination of the ongoing El Niño, which is expected to intensify, and the dry conditions will likely prolong the fire season and worsen air quality across the region. Experts predict that without significant rainfall, the crisis could extend well into September or October, leaving communities to suffer the consequences of these environmental conditions.

Source: www.aljazeera.com