Jerebu: Malaysia perlu pendekatan proaktif, bukan reaktif

Malaysia must adopt a proactive approach, not a reactive one, to address the potential crisis of transboundary haze pollution following poor air quality, according to Lee Lam Thye, Chairman of the Community Safety Association. He emphasized that deteriorating air quality in several areas of Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia should serve as an early warning sign for the government to take proactive measures instead of reacting after the situation becomes serious.

Lee lamented that Malaysia has faced this issue repeatedly in the past and urged the nation not to be caught unprepared once again. He highlighted that prolonged heat and dry weather in Sarawak could lead to rapid forest fires, while smoke could easily cross borders. In a statement, he proposed five steps to reduce the risk, including fully activating the National Haze Action Plan as soon as early warning signs indicate an increased risk.

To enhance monitoring, Lee called for strengthening the focus on hotspots, easily burnable areas, wind direction, and air quality. He urged the strengthening of cooperation with Indonesia and neighboring countries under the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution, ratified by all member countries in 2015. Although the framework is in place, he stressed the need for a more robust implementation and timely action on the ground.

Lee also called for enhanced accountability in addressing transboundary haze pollution as a public health, economic, and social crisis that can lead to respiratory problems, school disruptions, and increased healthcare costs. He urged the government to address root causes such as open burning, land smoldering, and unorganized agricultural and land-clearing activities.

He also urged the public to be better prepared by ensuring schools, hospitals, and workplaces have clear procedures and timely dissemination of air quality information.

Most importantly, Lee stressed the need to change perceptions. Haze should no longer be viewed as a seasonal disturbance, but as a recurring tropical disaster risk that requires prevention, preparedness, and cooperation throughout the year. He urged the government to fully utilize the ASEAN early warning system and act promptly based on received guidance, while emphasizing that preventive measures are far cheaper than dealing with the consequences when the situation worsens.