Burning Peatlands in Sumatra Trigger Haze Spread to Malaysia

 Tangerang, 21 July 2025

Thick haze has blanketed parts of Malaysia after massive peatland and forest fires broke out in Riau Province, Sumatra, Indonesia. The fires, which began intensifying in mid-July 2025, have now reached a critical level, prompting cross-border environmental and health concerns.

The fires are believed to have been caused by illegal land-clearing practices, particularly slash-and-burn methods commonly used to prepare land for palm oil plantations. Peatlands, which are highly flammable especially during Indonesia's dry season, have made the situation more difficult to control. Once ignited, peat can smolder underground for weeks, releasing dense smoke and carbon emissions.

Authorities in Indonesia have deployed firefighters to contain the blaze, while environmental agencies continue to monitor the air quality. Meanwhile, the haze has drifted across the Strait of Malacca and into several Malaysian states, including Johor and Malacca. Malaysian officials have issued health advisories, urging residents—especially those with respiratory conditions—to stay indoors and limit outdoor activities.

This incident has reignited criticism toward Indonesia’s recurring forest fire problem, which has impacted neighboring countries almost annually. Environmental groups are calling for stronger enforcement of land-use regulations and more sustainable agricultural practices.

As of late July, air quality levels in both Indonesia and Malaysia have reached unhealthy thresholds in several areas. Regional cooperation is once again being tested as Southeast Asia faces the persistent challenge of transboundary haze pollution.

source, AP News: https://apnews.com/article/indonesia-malaysia-forest-peatland-fires-haze-71e77f2a2ecab1610431343cb99a0f7f?utm_source=chatgpt.com