Jakarta, Aug. 28 -- The Ministry of Health is strengthening logistical support, including face masks and oxygen concentrators, to assist 5.4 million people affected by forest and land fires across seven provinces.

"We have distributed a total of 5.3 million masks to the wildfire-affected areas. Provincial stocks remain sufficient, with 2.7 million masks still available," Deputy Health Minister Dante Saksono Harbuwono said in Jakarta on Friday.

He expressed hope that ongoing firefighting efforts will reduce pollution and lessen the demand for masks, which remain one of the best protections in addition to avoiding outdoor activities in areas with poor air quality.

Additionally, the ministry continues to identify needs across affected pro...