Haze pollution costs Malaysia $1.9B, potentially claims 1,700 lives: report
Malaysia’s latest haze crisis is estimated to have caused RM8 billion (US$1.97 billion) in welfare losses and may have contributed to approximately 1,700 premature deaths, according to a newly released report.
A recent report highlights the significant economic impact of transboundary haze pollution in Malaysia, estimating it to cost the country $1.9 billion and potentially claiming 1,700 lives. Commissioned by the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) and conducted by Carbon Spur Sdn Bhd, the study analyzed the crisis from July 1 to October 22.
The haze, primarily attributed to fires outside Malaysia, was found to have contributed to around 1,600 premature deaths, with an economic burden of RM3 billion to RM15 billion due to health-related issues. The prolonged smog disrupted manufacturing sectors and daily life, resulting in school closures and lost student-days, leading to operational disruptions in industries.
FMM President Jacob Lee Chor Kok emphasized the need to treat haze as a threat to labor productivity, economic sustainability, and regional competitiveness. As Malaysia prepares to assume the rotating chairmanship of the ASEAN Sub-Regional Ministerial Steering Committee on Transboundary Haze Pollution, the government announced new measures to combat recurring transboundary smog in the coming year.
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