Safety
Severe Wildfire Smoke Disrupts Education Across Indonesia
Hazardous air quality from wildfires has forced the closure of nearly 12,800 schools across Sumatra and Borneo, impacting 1.4 million students.
According to a report by Khaosod Online, Indonesia is currently facing a significant public health crisis due to intense wildfire smoke. As of September 10, 2026, approximately 12,800 schools across Sumatra and Borneo have been forced to close or transition to remote learning. In Palembang, the capital of South Sumatra, emergency measures have shifted over 250,000 students to online classes to protect them from dangerous air pollution levels.
This situation is exacerbated by a severe El Niño phenomenon and an extended dry season, which have intensified the annual wildfire cycle. The toxic haze has spread beyond Indonesian borders, reaching as far as the Philippines and causing a health crisis in Malaysia, where the Sarawak region recently declared a local state of emergency.
For travelers and residents in Southeast Asia, this regional air quality crisis may lead to sudden travel disruptions, health risks, and potential changes to local services. While authorities in Palembang have stated that school closures will be reviewed regularly based on air quality improvements, the long-term duration of these conditions remains uncertain. Travelers are advised to monitor local air quality reports and official government advisories, as the situation remains fluid and could impact broader regional travel and outdoor activities.
