Johor pushes Asean to convene emergency talks on haze prevention

JOHOR BAHRU — Johor's state administration has called for Asean nations to convene an emergency assembly to address mounting concerns over cross-border haze and establish more robust preventive mechanisms for the region.

The plea comes as Southeast Asia continues to grapple with seasonal haze pollution that regularly affects air quality across multiple countries. Johor, situated at Malaysia's southern tip and particularly susceptible to transboundary smoke, has positioned itself as an advocate for coordinated regional action.

State officials argue that existing frameworks require strengthening and that an urgent convening of Asean leadership could facilitate the development of enhanced protocols and enforcement mechanisms. The proposed meeting would aim to forge consensus on preventive strategies and establish clearer accountability measures among member states.

The call reflects growing frustration among affected regions with the cyclical nature of haze crises, which typically intensify during dry seasons and disrupt economic activity, public health, and daily life across the region. Johor's initiative underscores the need for binding commitments and improved coordination between Asean governments to combat the cross-border phenomenon more effectively.

The proposal awaits response from other Asean member nations and the regional bloc's coordinating mechanisms.