Malaysia urges Asean to strengthen regional haze preparedness

Malaysia has urged the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to enhance its collective preparedness in addressing transboundary haze, a recurring environmental challenge affecting the region. The call was made through an official representative to Asean Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn, according to a statement from Malaysia's Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Arthur Joseph Kurup. The intervention underscores Malaysia's commitment to strengthening regional mechanisms for tackling air quality issues that cross national borders. Transboundary haze, typically originating from land and forest fires in neighboring countries, has periodically impacted air quality across Malaysia and other Asean nations, prompting renewed calls for coordinated regional action. The push for enhanced preparedness reflects growing concerns about the economic and health implications of haze episodes, which have previously disrupted transportation, commerce, and public health across the region.