KJ wants govt to take firmer stance with Indonesia over haze

Former health minister Khairy Jamaluddin has criticized Malaysia's handling of the worsening haze caused by Indonesian plantation companies. In a recent podcast interview, Khairy accused the government of being "too soft" in dealing with Indonesia, stating that Malaysia should take a firmer stance against the responsible companies.

Despite acknowledging the need for diplomacy, Khairy expressed disappointment in the government's unwillingness to stand up for Malaysia's interests. He criticized Indonesia's handling of the environmental crisis, which he said has persisted for two months. Khairy believes that Malaysia should enact transboundary haze legislation to address the issue, as there are no mechanisms in ASEAN to punish Indonesia.

Natural resources and environmental sustainability minister Arthur Joseph Kurup added that policymakers must consider various factors before implementing such legislation, including its effectiveness, enforcement, diplomatic implications, and the burden of proof. He also noted that tackling transboundary haze has become more challenging due to climate variability, long dry spells, and agricultural practices.