Southeast Asia Haze Drives Oxygen, Purifier Sales Surge

Months of wildfire-driven haze from Indonesia have blanketed parts of Southeast Asia, prompting school closures and more respiratory complaints as families seek cleaner indoor air. In the Kuala Lumpur area, medical supplier AA Alive reported a 35% increase in sales of oxygen equipment, while pollution has cut oxygen-concentrator filter life by about half and pushed staff to meet heavier service and delivery needs. Retailers also reported sharp increases in air-purifier demand, including a 600% sales surge at one Malaysian chain and a ninefold rise at a Singapore retailer. Health experts warn that prolonged exposure to the pollutants poses serious risks, particularly for children and future generations.