While Indonesia has declared a haze emergency in Sumatra's Riau province, the smoke has already blown into neighbouring countries causing haze issues in several countries.
Singapore's Straits Times reported that the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) readings have already reached the unhealthy range (101-200) and are expected to worsen.
I have also told law enforcers to take stern action against those who are responsible, including confiscating land licences and forestry permits
The impact of forest fires in Riau, Jambi and South Sumatra provinces have prompted President Joko Widodo to instruct the police and armed forces chiefs to deploy additional personnel to help combat the haze.
"I have also told law enforcers to take stern action against those who are responsible, including confiscating land licences and forestry permits," Joko was quoted as saying.
The media said Singapore's Ministry of Education has activated haze management measures and will consider closing all schools if the air quality is at the hazardous level.
In Malaysia, schools in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Putrajaya, Melaka and Negeri Sembilan were closed a few days ago when air Pollutant Index readings showed that air quality in Kuala Selangor had reached a dangerous level of 207.
This perennial issue may impact tourism to these countries if the problem persists or worsens.