Malaysia urges Asean unity on haze crisis as El Niño intensifies

Malaysia has intensified its appeal for collective action among Asean member states to strengthen regional readiness against transboundary haze, amid forecasts that El Niño conditions will peak in coming months. The call, made from Putrajaya on Tuesday, reflects mounting pressure on Southeast Asian governments to coordinate their response to the recurring air quality crisis that affects millions across the region.

The timing of Malaysia's push is significant, as meteorological data indicates El Niño is entering its most intense phase, typically correlating with increased forest fires and agricultural burning in Indonesia and neighbouring areas. These activities generate the thick haze that periodically blankets Malaysia and other Asean nations, triggering health alerts and economic disruptions.

Malaysia's position emphasizes that addressing transboundary pollution requires more than unilateral measures, advocating instead for harmonized regional protocols and resource-sharing arrangements among Asean members. The government has underscored the need for enhanced monitoring systems, early warning mechanisms, and coordinated firefighting efforts to mitigate the impacts during peak El Niño months.

The appeal comes as Asean nations continue grappling with the environmental and public health consequences of seasonal haze events. By strengthening collective preparedness now, Malaysia argues, member states can better protect their citizens and economies from the anticipated severity of haze conditions expected as El Niño peaks.