Students in Kalimantan and Sumatra have clashed with police during protests demanding government action on wildfires and toxic haze, which are the most severe in over a decade.
Students in Kalimantan and Sumatra have taken to the streets in protest, calling for government action to address the wildfires and toxic haze affecting the region. The fires, which have intensified in recent weeks, are linked to slash-and-burn methods used to clear land for agricultural purposes, including palm oil cultivation. Indonesia is the world's leading producer of palm oil, and the scale of these fires has raised significant concerns.
The government has implemented measures such as the use of dry ice to help suppress the blazes. However, the haze continues to spread across Borneo and into neighboring countries. These wildfires are reported to be the most severe in over a decade, highlighting the urgent need for effective solutions to mitigate their impact on the environment and public health.
Why it matters
The protests highlight the urgent need for government action to address environmental degradation and public health risks in Indonesia.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
What to watch
The government's effectiveness in controlling the fires and reducing haze levels will be a key indicator of progress.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.