Thick plumes of smoke billowing from Indonesia’s Kalimantan province have drifted across the region, blanketing neighboring countries in a toxic haze that is sparking health alerts and diplomatic concern. The fires, largely linked to illegal slash‑and‑burn agriculture, have intensified as dry conditions grip the island, prompting authorities to deploy firefighters and request international assistance. Air quality monitors in Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand are reporting hazardous levels, leading governments to issue advisories for vulnerable groups and to consider temporary school closures. Environmental groups warn that the haze not only threatens public health but also underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement of land‑use regulations and regional cooperation to curb future outbreaks.
Indonesia’s Kalimantan province, sending smoke and toxic haze across Southeast Asia.
