Indonesia accepts Malaysia's help to tackle wildfires

Malaysia has agreed to provide aid to Indonesia in the form of aircraft and firefighters to combat the ongoing wildfires. Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi confirmed this assistance after receiving approval from Jakarta. Indonesia has been experiencing wildfires for weeks, particularly in Borneo and Sumatra, which have resulted in a toxic haze affecting parts of the country, Malaysia, and Singapore.

This matter was one of the topics discussed during a meeting between Ahmad and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on Friday. Ahmad expressed gratitude for Indonesia's acceptance of Malaysia's assistance, which includes a Bombardier CL-415MP aircraft, three helicopters, and 52 personnel. The leaders also discussed preventive measures to address fires and cross-border haze more efficiently.

Prabowo acknowledged the environmental issue and the impact felt by neighboring countries. This offer of help follows Japan's recent deployment of over 300 soldiers to Borneo to assist in firefighting efforts. Climate change, forest degradation, and slash-and-burn practices are contributing factors to the intensified wildfires this year, with more than 202,000 hectares burned across Indonesia from January to July.