Indonesian Students Call on ASEAN to Hold Jakarta Accountable for Haze Crisis

On October 17, the Student Alliance of Gadjah Mada University (SEMA UGM) addressed ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn, urging the bloc to scrutinize Indonesia's adherence to the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution amid months-long forest fires in Kalimantan and parts of Sumatra. The letter highlights a class-action lawsuit filed by West Kalimantan residents against President Prabowo Subianto, Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka and other authorities for alleged failure to prevent and control the blazes.

SEMA UGM calls for the fire crisis to be declared a national disaster and for Indonesia to accept regional firefighting support, noting offers from Malaysia and Singapore were omitted from a joint meeting on October 12. The students argue that diplomatic statements are insufficient and that accountability, effective fire suppression, and restoration of community rights must be demonstrated. They appeal for ASEAN solidarity with affected communities and groups documenting corporate involvement. The appeal underscores the cross-border health impacts of the haze and the need for transparent, cooperative action.