Indonesia deploys prayers, emergency crews as South Sumatra wildfires spread haze
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About 3,000 residents gathered in Palembang on Tuesday for Islamic prayers for rain as wildfires burned across South Sumatra's forests and peatlands. Emergency crews battled fires that have shrouded parts of Indonesia in hazardous haze and sent smoke into Malaysia and Brunei. Authorities have arrested 72 people over allegations of using fire to clear land.
Key Facts
- South Sumatra has 1,429 wildfire hotspots, the highest in Indonesia, followed by West Kalimantan with 1,226 and Central Kalimantan with 811.
- Nearly 940 square kilometres of land burned in July alone, including more than 20 square kilometres in South Sumatra.
- Authorities have arrested 72 people over allegations of using fire to clear land, and four companies are under investigation.
- Dozens of aircraft have been deployed for cloud seeding and water bombing operations.
Prayers for Rain
About 3,000 residents gathered on Tuesday in Palembang, the provincial capital, to perform salat istisqa, a special Islamic prayer for rain, in the courtyard of the governor's office. Worshippers stood shoulder to shoulder as thick smoke reduced visibility and forced motorists to drive with headlights on during the day. Governor Herman Deru said before the prayers, "We have done everything we can and worked closely with all relevant parties. As people of faith, we are also praying to God to send rain so that life can return to normal."
Firefighting and Enforcement
Emergency crews are battling fires driven by an intensifying El Nino pattern and a prolonged dry season. The fires have generated smoke that has drifted into Malaysia and Brunei, according to the national disaster management agency. Authorities have deployed dozens of aircraft for cloud seeding and water bombing and arrested 72 people over allegations of using fire to clear land, while four companies are under investigation.
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Indonesia deploys prayers, emergency crews as South Sumatra wildfires spread haze
