Southeast Asian peatland management key to reducing haze and wildfire risks

Experts are emphasizing the need for improved water management in peatlands to combat recurring haze and wildfire crises in Southeast Asia. In Malaysia, recent haze has led to unhealthy air quality readings and a significant rise in respiratory illnesses, including a 259 percent increase in asthma cases. Associate Professor Dr Helena Muhamad Varkkey of Universiti Malaya suggests that maintaining minimum water levels in converted peatlands is essential to prevent them from drying out and catching fire.

In Indonesia, research indicates that peatland restoration efforts have successfully reduced wildfire hotspots by as much as 22 percent during previous El Niño events. By 2024, approximately 1.6 million hectares had been restored under the government's Peatland Restoration Agency. However, concerns remain for 2026, as a strong El Niño is expected to reduce rainfall. Indonesian government figures reported that over 100,000 hectares burned between January and June 2026, highlighting the ongoing vulnerability caused by deforestation and drainage for agriculture.