Indonesia explains firefighting efforts to Malaysia as haze spreads

JAKARTA, October 11 — Indonesian and Malaysian officials are engaged in discussions to determine the most effective joint approach to combat forest and land fires, which have resulted in transboundary haze. Communication Agency director Syahganda Nainggolan indicated that strong bilateral ties are crucial for devising cooperative solutions, particularly when firefighting operations encounter obstacles like natural factors.

The Indonesian Foreign Minister and Malaysian Foreign Minister are reportedly engaging in detailed conversations to devise resolutions and collectively address the forest and land fires.

Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim affirmed Malaysia's willingness to aid Indonesia, alongside a proposal to organize a regional gathering of environment ministers to harmonize efforts to tackle transboundary haze. Anwar asserted, "The haze situation is indeed alarming. I personally communicated with President Prabowo, and he concurred that the essential measures must be undertaken."

Indonesia's Forestry Ministry disclosed on Saturday that 437 high-confidence hotspots had been identified across the nation as of 9 pm on Friday, a rise from 387 the day prior. Of this total, 270 hotspots were pinpointed in six priority provinces on Sumatra and Kalimantan. Currently, 61 aircraft are engaged in firefighting operations, aerial surveillance, and weather manipulation efforts.