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Peat Fires in Johor: Aerial Efforts Underway, Evacuations Continue

1/29/2026

26 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Firefighters Combat Peat Fires

Firefighters in Pengerang, Johor, Malaysia are handling three peat fires as of January 28, with two extinguished and the remaining under control.
The National Environment Agency says smoke has not reached Singapore yet, but winds could alter that.
Aerial operations, including water bombing, are ongoing to mitigate the fires.
Singapore's Pollutant Standards Index remains good to moderate.
A total of 124 people are sheltered as evacuations continue.

History

Historical Context

The 1997 Southeast Asian haze crisis stemmed from extensive peatland fires in Indonesia, releasing over 15 million tons of carbon dioxide and costing an estimated $9 billion. This environmental disaster prompted ASEAN nations to enhance cooperation on air quality management. Current peat fires in Pengerang, Johor, echo this crisis, highlighting the ongoing need for effective environmental policies to safeguard public health and air quality.

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Firefighters Combat Peat Fires

Firefighters in Pengerang, Johor, Malaysia are handling three peat fires as of January 28, with two extinguished and the remaining under control.
The National Environment Agency says smoke has not reached Singapore yet, but winds could alter that.
Aerial operations, including water bombing, are ongoing to mitigate the fires.
Singapore's Pollutant Standards Index remains good to moderate.
A total of 124 people are sheltered as evacuations continue.

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