PETALING JAYA: Their home is far away in Indonesia where the haze is choking parts of the country.
For Indonesians working in Malaysia, their worries about loved ones back home is compounded by the frustration that the local media coverage there did not adequately address the severity of the situation on the ground.
Susilowati Supardi, 31, said the recurring haze was troubling because of its impact on public health and everyday life back home.
“People are concerned about respiratory problems, while many have to wear face masks when going outdoors and stay indoors to avoid the haze,” she said.
Susilowati said the authorities should issue warnings and take firmer action against open burning to prevent the haze from recurring.
“The media focuses more on Air Pollutant Index (API), but people are dealing with daily health problems. Children have to miss school, while some people still have to work outdoors despite the haze,” she said, acknowledging public frustration in Malaysia and Singapore over the recurring haze linked to Indonesia.
Yahya Thohiriyah, 27, said the polluted air had raised health concerns.
“There is very little fresh air. It is unhealthy and I am worried about how it could affect my breathing,” she said.
Yahya was also concerned about her family’s health in Indonesia and felt that local media coverage did not adequately reflect the situation on the ground.
“I am worried about my family’s health back home, and I feel that what is happening in Indonesia is not being properly reported. The situation on the ground deserves more attention,” she said.
Vera Ambarwati, 26, said the haze in Indonesia was worse and thicker than in Malaysia, based on her observations of both countries.
“The air quality is poor, and there is not much fresh air. It is worrying because breathing polluted air is unhealthy.
“I hope this problem can be resolved, as it has been going on for years,” she said.
