Indonesia is battling a prolonged wildfire  crisis that has blanketed large parts of the country in thick toxic haze. In some areas, visibility has dropped to just a few dozen meters, disrupting daily life and business activity, particularly in hard-hit Kalimantan.

Health workers report a rise in patients suffering from coughs and cold-like symptoms, including people with pre-existing conditions. The haze has also spread across borders to Malaysia and Singapore, where authorities have distributed face masks. Experts say restoring peatlands, tackling illegal burning and improving forest management are key to preventing future haze crises.