Indonesia accepts Malaysia’s offer to help put out Kalimantan fires

Indonesia has accepted Malaysia's offer to help combat forest and land fires in Kalimantan, which have generated transboundary haze affecting neighboring countries. Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi confirmed President Prabowo Subianto's approval of Malaysia's assistance during their meeting at Istana Hambalang. The aid comprises a Bombardier CL-415MP aircraft, three helicopters, and 52 personnel from Malaysia's National Disaster Management Agency, Maritime Enforcement Agency, and Royal Malaysian Air Force.

Zahid, who chairs the Central Disaster Management Committee, stated that Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan would coordinate the assistance with relevant agencies. This aid aims not only to extinguish the fires but also to prevent future haze occurrences, as both countries agreed on longer-term measures. President Prabowo informed Zahid that there were still 1,426 hotspots in Kalimantan, while the Indonesian government has taken legal action against 95 companies involved in open burning in the Borneo region.

Zahid clarified that no Malaysian companies were among the 95, though Indonesian authorities are investigating potential Malaysian involvement.