Malaysia: Malaysia is prepared to extend assistance if needed by Indonesia to tackle forest and land fires and reduce the risk of transboundary haze pollution.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup announced that Malaysia's offer includes aerial firefighting capabilities, such as "water bombing" operations using helicopters, firefighting support with amphibious aircraft, and cloud seeding operations. The details of the assistance will be worked out with Indonesian authorities based on the situation's needs and the agreement between the two governments.

Arthur stated that a letter had been sent to Indonesian Environment Minister Mohammad Jumhur Hidayat, expressing Malaysia's readiness to assist. This offer follows discussions between the ministers during a bilateral meeting in Bali on July 8 and a phone conversation on August 24. Both countries aim to enhance preventive measures and early firefighting efforts, especially considering the increased risk of fires and haze due to the El Ni±o phenomenon and Southwest Monsoon.

The coordination of this assistance will align with the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution (AATHP), which requires ASEAN member states to provide assistance upon request and consent from the receiving country. Malaysia respects Indonesia's sovereignty and is prepared to coordinate the assistance details with Indonesian authorities if the offer is accepted.

Arthur emphasized that tackling the challenges of forest and land fires, as well as transboundary haze, requires early action, close coordination, and shared responsibility. He highlighted the importance of close cooperation between Malaysia and Indonesia to address the current situation and enhance both countries' preparedness for potential risks during hot and dry weather conditions.