TOXIC haze from forest fires in Indonesia has spread across Southeast Asia, affecting Malaysia and Singapore as poor air quality disrupts daily life, education and businesses.
In southern Malaysia, schools have closed and shifted to online learning as residents try to protect themselves from the polluted air.
Teacher Alia Akila Binti Nureddin says the transition to remote learning is better managed than in previous years.
Thousands of firefighters in Indonesia are battling the blazes, but poor visibility is hampering aerial firefighting efforts.
The crisis has also hit local businesses, with restaurants in Johor reporting fewer customers as people stay indoors.
ASEAN is calling for regional talks to address the recurring haze crisis, which has been intensified by El Niño conditions.—Oct 14, 2026
Main image: AP News
