A network of haze-safe shelters in Central Kalimantan has become a vital resource amid recurring forest fires in the region. Established initially in 2019 with three sites in Palangkaraya, the program has expanded to 26 shelters across Central, West, and South Kalimantan. These facilities offer air filtration systems, medical support, oxygen tanks, and medication to residents affected by thick smoke during the fire season.

Run in partnership with local organizations that provide staff and operational assistance, these shelters serve as free daytime refuges for anyone suffering health impacts from haze exposure. Since the start of the current fire season, more than 3,000 people have sought shelter at these centers. Common symptoms among visitors include coughing and shortness of breath, according to Sarasi, a representative involved in the program. Many individuals also face financial barriers to accessing traditional healthcare, with some unable to activate or update their national health insurance (BPJS) accounts to receive treatment.

The foundation supporting the shelters has also provided financial aid to patients needing hospital care. Recently, a toddler in Palangkaraya suffering from severe smoke-related breathing difficulties was admitted to hospital with the foundation's assistance. The child had experienced sleepless nights due to the haze.

In addition to operating the shelters, Tham, another key figure in the initiative, collaborates with Ranu Welum, a volunteer firefighting group, to improve the equipment available to frontline fire responders. Much of Central Kalimantan's firefighting efforts rely on volunteers who frequently use improvised tools. The shelters also serve a broader community purpose by offering safety for firefighters’ families, enabling volunteers to focus more fully on combating the fires.

For those unable to directly access affected areas, organizers have outlined ways to support relief efforts. Ranu Welum encourages donations of masks, vitamins, air purifiers, and volunteers with medical expertise. Tham also urged people in neighboring Singapore to educate themselves by following Indonesian activists on social media to gain a clearer understanding of the severity of the fires in the hardest-hit zones. “The degree of suffering there is much higher than what Singaporeans experience,” he said.

Echoing this call, Pebri from Jaga Api emphasized the importance of public awareness and advocacy. “We all have a role to play,” Pebri said, underscoring the hope that greater recognition of the issue will pressure authorities to take more decisive action against the recurring fires.