PM Anwar: Malaysia prepared to assist Indonesia in tackling forest fires

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 19 — Malaysia is ready to help Indonesia tackle forest and land fires that have caused transboundary haze. Moreover, Malaysia has suggested a cooperation mechanism at the Asean level to improve joint efforts in dealing with this issue. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stated that he is monitoring the fire situation closely, which has affected the health and daily lives of Malaysians, leading to school closures in several states and areas.

Speaking on Facebook yesterday, Anwar said that Malaysia is prepared to provide assistance, as it has done previously. He recognized the Indonesian government's deployment of thousands of personnel and aerial assets to control the fires. Anwar noted that tackling such a disaster is a complex task due to the large extent of the affected areas and unpredictable weather conditions.

He stressed that this transboundary challenge must be addressed through shared commitment and responsibility, reflecting the strong bonds between the two nations and regional cooperation. "We have proposed a cooperation mechanism at the Asean level to enhance coordination, preparedness, and collective action in dealing with transboundary haze," Anwar concluded.