Indonesia is preparing to accept assistance from neighboring countries to contain its worst forest fires in more than a decade, Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Nasir said on October 16.
The fires have caused breathing problems for hundreds of thousands of people and sent thick smoke into Malaysia and East Timor, forcing schools to close in affected areas. Malaysia has offered helicopters, an aircraft and 52 personnel, while Singapore has also expressed willingness to help. Indonesian officials are reviewing the offers to determine what assistance can be deployed.
Meanwhile, fires at Mount Bromo in East Java killed four people involved in firefighting, while two others suffered severe burns, according to Indonesia’s Forestry Ministry.
Photo: Reuters
