ASEAN urged to improve transboundary haze mechanisms

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called for ASEAN to evaluate and improve existing mechanisms to address the growing concern of transboundary haze. The issue has significant implications for public health, particularly for infants and children.

Sources of the haze have been traced to plantation areas in Indonesia, a matter that has been referred for discussion at the ASEAN level. While Malaysia has issued warnings to local companies, the Prime Minister noted that the government welcomes action from Indonesian authorities if illegal burning occurs within their borders. He emphasized that Malaysia will not defend any companies involved in such practices.

In Kuala Lumpur, deteriorating air quality has reduced visibility of major landmarks like the Petronas Twin Towers and the Kuala Lumpur Tower. Residents have expressed concerns over physical discomfort, such as throat and eye irritation, leading to calls for the government to encourage remote work and consider temporary school closures. In Sarawak, air quality levels in Sri Aman have reached unhealthy levels, with multiple areas across Selangor and Kuala Lumpur also recording unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings.