Saturday, October 31, 2026 - Indonesia is facing a growing environmental and public health emergency after toxic smoke from forest and land fires was estimated to have caused 3,560 deaths in September 2026 alone.
A report released by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) on October 29 reveals that the deadly smoke exposure more than doubled the estimated fire-related death toll recorded in August. The crisis also exposed approximately 57.8 million people to unhealthy or hazardous air quality, raising fresh concerns about the country's ability to control widespread wildfires.
The report estimates that total air pollution-related deaths reached 5,310 in September, including 1,750 linked to non-fire pollution from industries, power generation and vehicle emissions. The most severely affected areas included Kalimantan and Sumatra, where toxic smoke accounted for the overwhelming majority of pollution-related deaths in several provinces.
Fine particulate matter known as PM2.5 is particularly dangerous because its tiny particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream. The resulting haze has also spread across borders, affecting neighbouring countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines and Timor-Leste.
The findings are increasing pressure on Indonesian authorities to strengthen wildfire prevention, enforce environmental regulations and restore vulnerable peatlands that fuel prolonged fires. Experts are calling for tougher action against illegal land clearing, improved firefighting preparedness and stronger accountability for companies responsible for environmental damage.
The crisis is also a warning to other countries facing rising temperatures, prolonged droughts and worsening air pollution. Without immediate and sustained intervention, millions of people could remain exposed to dangerous pollution, placing additional pressure on healthcare systems, economies and regional environmental security.
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