Southeast Asia faced significant haze this year, mainly due to regional forest fires. A YouGov survey reveals a high level of awareness about this issue within the region.
Nearly 80% of Asian respondents are aware of the haze originating from Indonesian landscape fires. This awareness is lower in Hong Kong (48%) and Mainland China (44%). However, in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore, the three countries most affected, only 2% of respondents in each country reported being unaware of the haze.
Mask sales surged during this period, with two-thirds of people in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore using masks during haze episodes. Among those who didn’t wear masks, 39% considered them unnecessary, 38% found them uncomfortable, and 18% doubted their effectiveness in protecting against pollution.
58% of those aware of the haze believe that palm oil companies igniting their plantations are a contributing factor to the fires in Indonesia. Additionally, 48% attribute the fires to farmers burning their plantations, while 44% believe dry weather is a cause.
When asked about responsibility for the haze, 63% of respondents pointed to palm oil plantation companies, while 62% blamed the Indonesian government. A smaller proportion, 18%, believe that brands using palm oil in their products are responsible.
Two-thirds of Asian respondents believe the Indonesian government hasn’t taken sufficient action to address the haze, suggesting more could be done to enforce laws against using fire for land clearing. Within Indonesia, opinions are divided: 45% believe the government could do more, while 44% believe enough has been done by enacting legislation against illegal forest fires for agriculture.
Two-thirds of Asian respondents believe governments in other countries can contribute more by investing in monitoring and enforcing existing bans on using fire for land preparation. Approximately half (51%) agree that companies utilizing palm oil should ensure their supply chain doesn’t contribute to deforestation. 42% believe consumers should urge manufacturers to disclose the deforestation practices of their palm oil sources.
Source: YouGov infographic.
One-fifth of people in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore experienced health issues due to the haze. Over half of respondents from these countries reported staying home more frequently during haze events. Only 13% indicated that the haze had no impact on their lifestyle.
69% of people in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore found outdoor activities less appealing due to the haze. 41% reported reduced spending on travel and holidays for the same reason.
While 43% of respondents in the three most affected countries haven’t experienced noticeable health effects from the haze, 32% have dealt with haze-related health problems independently. 20% sought medical attention for their haze-related health issues.
When asked about their level of concern if the haze didn’t impact their country, over half (52%) of respondents from these countries stated they would still be concerned. Only 5% claimed they wouldn’t care.
Upon learning that the haze might persist until early next year, 66% of respondents expressed disappointment, 54% felt anger, and 53% expressed a desire to contribute to a solution. 22% indicated resignation to the situation.
Regarding the Pollutant Standard Index (PSI) or equivalent measurements from national environment agencies, 57% of Asian respondents consider them somewhat or very trustworthy. One-quarter distrust the readings, while the rest don’t consult them at all.
The haze has influenced travel patterns in the Asia Pacific. 68% indicated they would only visit haze-free cities or countries. A mere 7% would still visit affected areas, unconcerned about the haze. Another 18% would proceed with travel to affected regions due to work commitments, family obligations, or pre-booked trips.
Interestingly, Singapore remains among the top five desired travel destinations in the Asia Pacific, regardless of the haze:
- Japan (50%)
- Australia (43%)
- New Zealand (38%)
- Singapore (33%)
- Thailand (25%)
However, these rankings shift in some countries. In Mainland China, Singapore is the top choice for 50% of respondents, while over 50% of Malaysians favor Australia.
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*YouGov conducted an online survey of 7,536 respondents across the Asia Pacific region from November 17 to 23, 2015. Data was gathered from YouGov panelists and weighted to be representative of the online population.