Malaysia, Indonesia discuss joint action to tackle transboundary haze

JAKARTA, Oct 11 — Indonesia and Malaysia are in talks to coordinate efforts against forest and land fires that have caused transboundary haze, according to the Indonesian Communications Agency head Syahganda Nainggolan. He stated that good relations between the two nations are crucial for finding joint solutions, as firefighting operations face difficulties, including natural factors.

Indonesian Foreign Minister and Malaysian Foreign Minister are reportedly holding detailed discussions to address the issue. Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim confirmed his readiness to assist Indonesia, following a personal call from Syahganda to President Prabowo, who agreed to take necessary measures. Indonesia's Forestry Ministry reported on Saturday that there are 437 high-confidence hotspots nationwide as of 9 pm on Friday, an increase from 387 the previous day.

Of these, 270 hotspots were detected in six priority provinces across Sumatra and Kalimantan, while 61 aircraft have been deployed for firefighting operations, aerial patrols, and weather modification.