Kuala Lumpur:Malaysia has called for a more proactive and coordinated ASEAN response to transboundary haze, advancing proposals for scientific cooperation and a Sustainable Haze Fund to strengthen the region’s preparedness.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan emphasized the need for effective implementation of the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution. He highlighted the deteriorating air quality, including unhealthy and hazardous levels in several areas, posing serious risks to public health and daily activities, particularly among vulnerable populations.

Mohamad proposed Science Diplomacy and a Sustainable Haze Fund as measures to bolster scientific cooperation, sustainable financing, and collective response to haze pollution. He also stressed the importance of ratifying the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Transboundary Haze Pollution Control to enhance regional preparedness and responsiveness.

Appreciating Indonesia's efforts to control land and forest fires in Kalimantan and Sumatra, Mohamad acknowledged the challenges posed by El Nino conditions, unpredictable weather, and remote locations. He expressed Malaysia's commitment to pursuing these proposals at the upcoming Conference of the Parties to the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution and through its future leadership in the Ministerial Steering Committee on Transboundary Haze Pollution in 2027.

Beyond haze issues, Mohamad called for stronger ASEAN consensus to safeguard its centrality amid geopolitical and economic fragmentation and complex cross-border security threats. He emphasized the importance of diversifying supply chains, deepening intra-ASEAN trade, and strengthening regional production networks.

Malaysia also welcomed the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA), anticipating its role in enhancing digital connectivity, trade expansion, and regional competitiveness. On ASEAN-China relations, Mohamad mentioned an upcoming summit likely to adopt joint statements on their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and energy cooperation.

Regarding ASEAN-Turkiye relations, Mohamad advocated for a comprehensive and forward-looking Plan of Action, focusing on trade facilitation, supply chain resilience, and defense industry cooperation.