Football games, night markets carry on in Johor amid haze and school closures
Johor, Malaysia, is facing severe air pollution from Indonesian forest fires, leading to school closures and health warnings. Despite the hazardous conditions, some public activities continue, though local businesses report significant economic losses due to reduced foot traffic.
Why it matters
It highlights the cross-border environmental impact of regional haze and the resulting economic and social strain on local communities.
Johor Bahru records among the highest air pollutant index readings in the state.
Listen Summarise Johor is badly hit by haze from Indonesian fires, forcing school closures and outdoor limits. API levels passed 200 in some areas, and 617,000 students were affected. Daily life goes on in some places, with football matches and night markets still open. But crowds are smaller, sales have fallen, and some people report coughs and sore eyes. The haze has also caused fear and grief after a fatal collision in Pontian. Leaders have urged masks, more school closures, and an Asean emergency meeting for a joint solution. AI generated
PONTIAN, Johor – Sundry shop owner Kek Kim Teck had hoped school closures due to the worsening haze would bring more children to his stall at a seaside park to buy snacks and toys, but instead, the place was deserted.
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