South East Asia (SEA)

In recent times, the sprawling metropolis of Jakarta, along with its surrounding cities, has found itself enveloped in a thick and persistent smog. This environmental crisis has cast a wide net, affecting even Indonesian President Joko Widodo , commonly referred to as Jokowi. He has grappled with a relentless cough for four weeks, a condition some believe may be attributed to the deteriorating air quality. Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Sandiaga Uno, candidly shared his concerns with reporters, stating, “He [President Jokowi] has never felt like this.” The President’s own physician has also hinted at the connection between the worsening air quality and his ongoing health issues. The issue of smog in Jakarta has long been a source of concern, both domestically and on the international stage. Recent weeks have seen Jakarta consistently ranking near the top of global pollution charts. The capital even earned the dubious distinction of being labeled the world’s most polluted ci...