Frustration is mounting in Malaysia over haze caused by fires in Indonesia, with growing criticism of ASEAN’s limited response to the recurring problem.
Malaysia has requested an urgent ASEAN meeting, and the Philippines, which holds the bloc’s chairmanship this year, has confirmed that the issue will be discussed at a foreign ministers’ meeting next month.
Public anger intensified after Syahganda Nainggolan, head of Indonesia’s government communications agency, made remarks about the haze that quickly went viral. He said, “We do not just send smoke… The oxygen in Singapore and Malaysia also comes from our forests.” Malaysian politician Syerleena described the comments as “downright insensitive”.
Meanwhile, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto ordered the government on Monday to make every possible effort to tackle the fires, which have continued for three months in some areas.
James Chin, a professor of Asian studies at the University of Tasmania, said frustration in Malaysia and Singapore was putting pressure on their governments. However, he expects little progress, citing ASEAN’s reluctance to interfere in matters considered domestic sovereignty. He also described the effectiveness of existing efforts as questionable.
