
Indonesia's Toxic Haze Sparks Regional Concern Amid Deliberate Fires
Indonesia is grappling with extensive forest and land fires, with over 200,000 hectares destroyed and toxic haze impacting neighboring countries. While officials blame El Niño, experts point to human-driven fires for cheap land clearing, exacerbated by regulatory laxity and weak law enforcement.
This article requires PRO
This article is outside the free access window or is a special report. PRO unlocks it and the full archive.
Related articles
- KPK May Investigate Forestry Minister Amid Kuansing Bupati Corruption Case
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has opened the possibility of questioning Forestry Minister (Menhut) Raja Juli Antoni regarding the bribery case involving the non-active regent of Kuantan Singingi (Kuansing). The investigation will depend on the progression of testimonies during the trial.
- Indonesia's Forest Fires Spark Health Crisis: Over 330,000 Cases of Respiratory Illness Reported
Indonesia's recurring forest and land fires (karhutla) have escalated beyond ecological disaster into a critical health crisis. Over 330,000 individuals, particularly vulnerable groups like children and the elderly, have contracted Acute Respiratory Infection (ISPA) due to toxic smoke exposure, with air pollution levels reaching hazardous extremes.
- Disappearing Wildlife Offers No Respite for South Sumatra Coffee Farmers
Coffee farmers in South Sumatra feel safer in their fields due to the decline of wild animals. However, wild boars and unpredictable weather are damaging crops and affecting coffee yields, with habitat loss suspected as a primary cause.
- Indonesia's Autocratization Costs the Environment
Analysis suggests Indonesia's increasing autocratization is weakening environmental protection policies, leading to rising environmental costs. This poses challenges to balancing political stability with sustainable development.