Transboundary haze tackled informally at ASEAN health ministers' meeting

The transboundary haze problem affecting the region was brought into focus during informal discussions at the 17th ASEAN Health Ministers' Meeting held in the Malaysian capital on September 10, Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad said.

While the issue was not formally listed on the official agenda of the gathering, delegates took the opportunity to address concerns about the persistent air quality challenges that have repeatedly impacted public health across Southeast Asia.

The informal nature of the discussions underscores the ongoing concern among ASEAN member states regarding the cross-border nature of the haze phenomenon, which typically occurs during the dry season and affects multiple countries in the region simultaneously.

Regular transboundary haze events have prompted calls for enhanced regional cooperation and coordinated responses to mitigate health impacts and improve air quality standards across Southeast Asia.

The ASEAN Health Ministers' Meeting provides a key forum for regional health officials to exchange views on shared public health challenges and explore collaborative approaches to address issues affecting the wellbeing of citizens across member nations.