‘Clean air not a luxury’: Manufacturers in Malaysia demand Asean accelerate haze-free roadmap

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 9 — The Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) has called for urgent, tangible steps from Asean to curb transboundary haze, highlighting the adverse effects on health, safety, and productivity. The haze currently blankets the nation, with 38 out of 68 monitoring stations reporting unhealthy air quality levels, the most severe in Seremban at 186.

FMM president Jacob Lee Chor Kok emphasized that industrial growth should not compromise environmental sustainability, stating, "Clean air is not a luxury. It is a fundamental requirement for public health, economic productivity and sustainable development."

Persistent haze leads to workforce shortages, disrupts logistics, and increases operational costs due to protective measures and filtration systems. While the federation recognizes existing regional agreements, it calls for a shift from consensus to actionable steps. FMM proposes a five-point plan for regional governments: upgrading monitoring systems, enforcing penalties against illegal burning, promoting responsible supply chains, accelerating financing and research, and safeguarding workers.

To improve monitoring, member states should integrate satellite imagery, ground sensors, and AI for rapid alerts. Enforcement of strict penalties for open burning is crucial, along with rehabilitation of peatlands and providing alternatives for smallholders. FMM urges large corporations to conduct thorough environmental due diligence and assist SMEs in compliance.

They also urge Asean to implement fast-track financing, green technology, and research. Finally, FMM advocates for workplace safety measures, including curbing outdoor labor and providing respiratory protection. The federation urges the Asean Secretariat to publish regular progress reports and the Malaysian government to use Budget 2027 for incentives for green technologies and SME investments.