Former anti-corruption chief pushes for stronger Asean haze agreement enforcement

KUALA LUMPUR — The need for a more robust regional approach to combating transboundary haze has been highlighted by former anti-corruption campaigner Lee Lam Thye, who called for urgent action at the Asean level to address the recurring air pollution problem.

Lee has urged Asean leaders to undertake a high-level review of the existing regional agreement on haze, with particular emphasis on strengthening enforcement mechanisms and establishing concrete action plans that carry real consequences for non-compliance.

The call comes as Southeast Asian nations continue to grapple with seasonal haze, typically caused by agricultural burning in neighbouring countries. Current agreements have faced criticism for lacking sufficient teeth to compel member states to implement preventive measures and control practices that contribute to cross-border air pollution.

Regional cooperation remains critical to tackling the issue, which affects millions of residents across Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and other neighbouring countries. Experts argue that without enforceable commitments and coordinated enforcement efforts, seasonal haze episodes will persist in disrupting daily life and affecting public health across the region.

The appeal for a strengthened pact reflects growing frustration among environmental advocates and public health officials over the limitations of current regional mechanisms in addressing transboundary environmental challenges.