Health Ministry Prepares Circular on Haze Response, Remote Learning

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Ministry of Health is preparing a circular letter to strengthen measures to protect public health from haze caused by forest and land fires, including limiting outdoor activities and implementing remote learning (PJJ) when air quality deteriorates.

The Ministry’s Director of Environmental Health, Then Suyanti, said her office has coordinated with the Ministry of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Ministry of Religious Affairs to promote remote learning as a protective measure for vulnerable groups.

“We are preparing the circular letter. The document will likely be issued by the Secretary‑General within the next two days,” she said in Jakarta on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

Then said the measure is necessary because pollutants, particularly fine particulate matter (PM2.5), can spread widely and pose significant health risks. The impact depends not only on pollutant concentrations but also on exposure duration and an individual’s health condition.

PM2.5 consists of airborne particles measuring 2.5 micrometers or less in diameter. Because they are so small, the particles can penetrate deep into the respiratory system and reach the lungs. Prolonged exposure to high concentrations can increase the risk of respiratory problems, including acute respiratory infections (ARI), and worsen heart and lung conditions.

Haze exposure can also cause eye and skin irritation and increase the risk of cardiovascular problems, including heart disease and stroke.

The Ministry of Health is also coordinating its response with guidance issued by the Environment Ministry to governors, mayors, and regents on monitoring air quality. Schools are advised to reduce or suspend in‑person classes when air pollution reaches unhealthy levels.

“The recommendation is consistent with the guidance: schools should avoid in‑person classes when the Air Pollutant Standard Index (ISPU) rises,” Then said.

Data as of August 22 showed that forest and land fires were most intense in Riau, Jambi, South Sumatra, and several other areas. Ministry of Health monitored 17 stations at around 5 a.m. Wednesday, local time, recorded hazardous air quality in several locations.

The ISPU reading in Muaro Jambi Regency reached 302, while Jekan Raya in Palangkaraya, Central Kalimantan, recorded 573. Both readings were classified as hazardous.

An ISPU score of 0–50 indicates good air quality, while 201–300 indicates very unhealthy air quality and an increased risk to health.

To reduce haze-related health risks, the Ministry of Health is urging the public to limit outdoor activities, wear masks when necessary, monitor air quality, and maintain a clean, healthy lifestyle.

The government is also working to ensure adequate supplies of medicines and healthcare services, while conducting periodic health evaluations and screenings to identify health problems related to smoke exposure. ***