Onn Hafiz calls for emergency Asean meeting over transboundary haze

Johor's Menteri Besar, Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, has urged an emergency Asean meeting to tackle the worsening transboundary haze problem that has impacted his state. He emphasized the need for Asean to take a more proactive role, with member states sharing their knowledge, resources, and abilities based on the circumstances of the affected nations.

During a discussion with the Indonesian Consul-General in Johor Baru, Onn Hafiz stressed that the emphasis should be on collaborative problem-solving, rather than assigning blame, as the pollution had strayed beyond national boundaries.

He pointed out that air pollution affecting neighboring countries, such as Malaysia, necessitates closer regional collaboration for mutual benefit. Onn Hafiz further argued that stronger regional coordination could lead to quicker and more efficient prevention, monitoring, and response measures. He proposed that countries with the necessary expertise, assets, and capabilities could step in to aid as per the needs and through mutual coordination and agreement.

Earlier this week, Onn Hafiz had formally expressed his state's concerns over transboundary haze to the Indonesian consul-general in Johor Baru, requesting immediate action after air pollution levels in several areas rose to harmful levels. The Asean framework offers member states a platform to exchange information, coordinate monitoring and prevention efforts, and act collectively to address transboundary air pollution.

The New Straits Times has contacted Sigit Suryantoro Widiyanto for his insights on the meeting and the proposed emergency Asean meeting, as well as his recommendations to tackle the transboundary haze issue.