Each year, as drought tightens its grip on the islands of Borneo and Sumatra, fire becomes both a tool and a catastrophe — a cheap agricultural shortcut that escapes human control and becomes a regional affliction. This year, amplified by a powerful El Niño, Indonesia's burning season has grown into one of the worst in recorded memory, consuming nearly 896,000 hectares and sending toxic haze across the borders of five nations. The crisis is not merely meteorological; it is the accumulated consequence of decades of land degradation, economic pressure, and deferred accountability — a slow emerge
Indonesia's fire crisis: Super El Niño intensifies toxic haze affecting millions across Southeast Asia
Respiratory illnesses more than doubled to 113,336 by September 9; residents report stinging eyes, dizziness, and difficulty breathing; schoolchildren wear masks; wildlife including orangutans require oxygen assistance.