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

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 19 — Malaysia stands ready to assist Indonesia in combating forest and land fires that have caused transboundary haze, Malaysia's Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced on Facebook. Anwar emphasized that Malaysia remains prepared to lend a hand, just as they have done previously. The Malaysian leader expressed concern over the fires' impact on the health and daily lives of Malaysians, leading to school closures in several regions.

Anwar praised Indonesia's efforts in deploying thousands of personnel and aerial assets to contain the fires, acknowledging the immense challenge posed by the disaster. The Prime Minister highlighted that tackling such a complex issue requires shared commitment and responsibility, in line with the strong ties between Malaysia and Indonesia.

To strengthen cooperation, Anwar proposed the establishment of an Asean-level mechanism to enhance coordination, preparedness, and collective action in dealing with transboundary haze.