Kuala Lumpur:Malaysia has urged for a more proactive and coordinated ASEAN response to tackle transboundary haze issues, proposing initiatives for scientific cooperation and the establishment of a Sustainable Haze Fund to enhance regional preparedness.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan emphasized the severe risks posed by deteriorating air quality, which has reached unhealthy and hazardous levels in some areas, affecting public health and daily activities, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Mohamad highlighted the importance of implementing the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution effectively and proposed advancements in Science Diplomacy and sustainable financing initiatives to bolster the region's collective response to haze pollution. He stressed the necessity for the ratification and early deployment of the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Transboundary Haze Pollution Control to improve regional readiness.

Expressing appreciation for Indonesia's efforts to manage land and forest fires in Kalimantan and Sumatra, Mohamad acknowledged the challenges posed by El Nino conditions, unpredictable weather, and remote locations of the affected areas. He also stated Malaysia's intention to pursue its proposals at the upcoming Conference of the Parties to the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution and during its chairmanship of the Ministerial Steering Committee on Transboundary Haze Pollution in 2027.

Beyond the haze issue, Mohamad called for strengthened consensus within ASEAN to safeguard its centrality amid increasing geopolitical and economic fragmentation. He emphasized the importance of diversifying supply chains, enhancing intra-ASEAN trade, and fortifying regional production networks for the bloc's resilience.

Malaysia welcomed the signing of the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA), anticipating its role in boosting digital connectivity and regional competitiveness. In terms of ASEAN-China relations, Mohamad noted the expected adoption of joint statements at the upcoming summit to mark the fifth anniversary of their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the establishment of an energy cooperation partnership.

Regarding ASEAN-Turkiye relations, Mohamad advocated for the timely conclusion of a comprehensive Plan of Action to ensure tangible outcomes in areas such as trade facilitation and supply chain resilience.