REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, BANJARBARU - The Health Agency of Banjarbaru, South Kalimantan, will distribute 1,500 masks to protect the residents from haze caused by forest and land fires.

Banjarbaru Deputy Mayor Ogi Fajar Nuzuli said on Friday that the anti-haze masks would be mainly distributed among Muslims who would offer Eid Adha prayers in open fields, such as Murjani Field in front of the City Hall and Unlam Banjarbaru Field.

"The masks will be given to Muslims ahead of the Eid Adha prayers, so that they can pray solemnly," he said.

Though the Indonesian government has announced that eid Adha this year will fall on Sunday (October 5), some religious organizations, such as the Muhammadiyah, will celebrate the Muslim Day of Sacrifice on Saturday, October 4. According to the Head of Banjarbaru Health Agency, Agus Widjaya, the distribution of anti-haze masks will be carried out on two days, considering the different days for celebration.

"The distribution on Saturday morning (Oct 4) will be held in the fields, while on Sunday morning (Oct 5), masks will be distributed among the congregations offering prayers in mosques," Agus explained.

Agus added that the Banjarbaru Health Agency was ready to provide anti-haze masks to the public as thick haze enveloped the city in the last two days.

"In view of the thick haze, we have urged the people to avoid outdoor activities and wear masks, both inside and outside their homes," he said.

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