Indonesia Faces Rising Respiratory Illness Amidst Haze, Concerns Over Inadequate Mask Distribution

Acute respiratory infections (ISPA) are surging in Indonesia's Kalimantan region, driven by severe haze from ongoing forest and land fires (karhutla). While the government has initiated mask distribution to the public, the Indonesian Forum for the Environment (WALHI) has raised concerns that the masks provided do not meet adequate standards, failing to offer sufficient protection. "The mask distribution by the government does not meet standards. For instance, with air concentrations that are dangerous and very dangerous above 300, we are distributing masks that are not standard, such as N95," stated Sri, a representative from WALHI West Kalimantan, on Tuesday (15/9). She further explained that inadequate masks leave the community unprotected from the threats of smoke pollution resulting from the fires. "It's ineffective; people are just wearing masks, but in terms of protection, it's not appropriate," Sri commented. Despite these issues, ISPA cases continue to rise across several Kalimantan provinces. In West Kalimantan, from January to August 22, 2026, a total of 165,727 ISPA cases were recorded. Sri noted that nearly the entire population of West Kalimantan, including the elderly, children, and toddlers, has been affected. In South Kalimantan, ISPA cases have reached over 3,900, according to WALHI South Kalimantan. The organization also pointed out that the local government's handling of ISPA has not been sufficient, with the government reportedly not covering hospital costs for affected residents. A similar trend is observed in Central Kalimantan. WALHI Central Kalimantan reported a surge of 3,963 ISPA cases in August alone. Palangka Raya city recorded the highest number of cases, with 17,061. Sri lamented that the widespread ISPA reports have not prompted the government to implement comprehensive handling measures. She highlighted issues with health centers (Puskesmas), which are supposed to operate 24 hours but remain closed on weekends. "I observed last week, when the government recommended 24-hour readiness for Puskesmas, there were still Puskesmas on weekends that should be open 24 hours but were closed. Looking at the data on the West Kalimantan Health Office website, the numbers decreased because they were not providing services," Sri said.