Source: Screengrab obtained from Mothership (Website of the thank you page is now defunct)

Then Indonesian Vice-President Jusuf Kalla remarked in 2015 how Indonesian neighbours did not thank Indonesia for the 11 months of fresh air that the Indonesian forests provided. Transboundary haze is an issue that regularly crops up in diplomacy in the region. As we’ve all experienced every few years, visibility drops, a distinct burnt, ashy smell lingers and the PSI increases. In Malaysia, schools were even closed as a result.

In Indonesia, respiratory infections among the populace increased, schools were shuttered. In one of the worst episodes of the seasonal haze (2015), the Kalimantan Parliament’s assembly was interrupted as the haze penetrated the building, disrupting government processes.

The haze is a situation that affects us all. Yet, such remarks from a elected official of high standing are not only unconstructive but also gives the perception that the Indonesian politicians just simply do not care about the dire situation at hand. But is this all? As with all things in life, these issues are more complex than just irresponsible politicians. We’ll explore the various facets of the issue of haze and look at the causes, impacts and what has been done and will be done by the various stakeholders.

So sit back, mask up and let’s navigate through this smog together.