Indonesia Advises Online Learning Amid Haze Crisis

Indonesia's Ministry of Health is preparing a directive to shield children from the health impacts of forest and land fire smoke. The proposed circular advises schools in regions with unhealthy air quality to suspend in-person classes and adopt distance learning.

Director of Environmental Health Then Suyanti stated the circular will be sent to the Ministries of Education and Culture and Religious Affairs. "If the Air Pollution Standard Index (ISPU) registers high and unhealthy levels, schools can suspend outdoor activities and shift to distance learning," she said during a virtual press conference. The policy aims to safeguard vulnerable groups, particularly children, from harmful pollutants.

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If the Air Pollution Standard Index (ISPU) registers high and unhealthy levels, schools can suspend outdoor activities and shift to distance learning.

The Ministry of Environment and Forestry has also instructed regional leaders to track air quality. Air quality in several areas has already reached hazardous levels, with Muaro Jambi's ISPU at 302 and Jekan Raya, Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan, reaching 573. An ISPU reading above 300 is classified as hazardous.

Haze from land fires contains fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and toxic compounds, which can worsen respiratory illnesses in children. Their developing lungs, cardiovascular systems, and cognitive functions make them particularly susceptible. Children also tend to spend more time outdoors, increasing their exposure risk.

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Children are more sensitive because their lungs, cardiovascular systems, and cognitive functions are still developing, and they tend to be more active outdoors.