Smoke from forest and peatland fires in Indonesia has led to hazardous air quality levels in parts of Malaysian Borneo, resulting in a rise in respiratory illnesses and the cancellation of outdoor Independence Day celebrations. The smoke, originating from Kalimantan in Indonesia, has affected the Malaysian state of Sarawak and has also reached Brunei and Singapore. This situation marks the worst haze episode since 2015, when previous fires in Indonesia resulted in widespread health issues.
As of August, six areas in Sarawak reported hazardous air quality, with air pollutant index readings exceeding 300. Kuching, the state capital, recorded an index of 407, while Serian reached 408. Mia Emylia Hassan, a resident of Kuching, described the pervasive smoke and reduced visibility, noting that her infant daughter has experienced health complications due to the poor air quality.
Malaysia's Ministry of Health reported a significant increase in respiratory illnesses, with asthma cases rising from 219 to 1,811 in the week of August 23 to 29. In peninsular Malaysia, Karen-Michaela Tan, an asthma patient, reported worsening symptoms and increased reliance on medication.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has issued a Level 3 transboundary haze alert, indicating a high risk of severe haze due to an increase in fire hotspots and prolonged dry weather linked to an intensifying El Niño weather pattern. The haze has prompted Sarawak to cancel outdoor Independence Day celebrations, with officials warning of potential further restrictions if air quality worsens.
In Kuala Lumpur, schools have been affected, with nearly 600 schools closing on August 20 and 21, impacting around 200,000 students. Youth sports activities have also been suspended due to health concerns.
In Indonesia, approximately 13,500 people received treatment for respiratory infections in July and August, with around 5.5 million people exposed to smoke. Fires in Indonesia have burned over 200,000 hectares between January and July, with nearly 95,000 hectares burned in July alone. Despite ongoing efforts to control the fires, they continue to escalate, particularly in West Kalimantan.
Experts warn that the ongoing El Niño conditions may lead to a prolonged fire season, resulting in more severe haze conditions in the region. Researchers emphasize the need for sustained rainfall to effectively extinguish the fires and mitigate the health impacts of the haze.