Jerebu: Malaysia perlu pendekatan proaktif, bukan reaktif

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia needs to take proactive measures, rather than reactive ones, to address the potential crisis of transboundary haze haze pollution, according to Lee Lam Thye, Chairman of the Community Safety Association. The deteriorating air quality in several areas of Sarawak and the mainland should be viewed as an early warning sign for the government to adopt a proactive approach instead of reacting after the situation becomes serious.

Lee emphasized that every time this issue has been faced before, they should not be caught unprepared. He stated that the situation in Sarawak is particularly concerning due to the prolonged heat and dry weather, which can rapidly cause wildfires to spread and smoke to cross borders. In a statement, Lee proposed five strategies to reduce the risk, including fully activating the National Haze Action Plan as soon as early warning signs indicate a heightened risk.

He also called for improved monitoring of hotspots, easily combustible areas, wind direction, and air quality to enable early action. Lee urged strengthening cooperation with Indonesia and neighboring countries through the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution, ratified by all member countries in 2015. While the framework exists, stronger implementation and swifter on-ground action are urgently needed.

Lee also called for greater accountability by treating transboundary haze as a public health, economic, and social crisis that can lead to respiratory issues, school disruptions, and increased healthcare costs. He stressed that authorities should not ignore local causes such as open burning, land fires, and poorly managed land clearing and planting activities.

Lee urged the public to be more prepared by ensuring schools, hospitals, and workplaces have clear procedures in place, in addition to providing accurate information about air quality to the public at the right time. Most importantly, Lee emphasized the need to change perceptions, as transboundary haze can no longer be considered a seasonal nuisance but rather a repeating disaster risk that requires prevention, preparedness, and cooperation throughout the year.