Malaysia to Continue Using Diplomatic Channels over Haze

Kuala Lumpur (ANTARA) — Malaysia will continue to use diplomatic channels and ASEAN mechanisms to address the transboundary haze problem with Indonesia gradually, prioritising the interests and health of the public without affecting bilateral relations.

Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan made the statement in Rembau, Malaysia, on Thursday, as reported by BERNAMA.

He said direct discussions between leaders and the use of regional channels were the main approaches to handling sensitive issues involving neighbouring countries, rather than law enforcement action or the delivery of diplomatic notes.

“We have not reached that point. It is easy to talk about law enforcement, but if we take such action, it means we are prepared to sever relations,” he said.

“We have not reached that stage, and sending a diplomatic note is not necessary. A diplomatic note is a last resort,” he added.

Mohamad Hasan stressed that this position did not mean Malaysia would remain silent on the ongoing haze issue. Instead, the government was using more comprehensive mechanisms to find a joint solution at the regional level.

He said Malaysia was also willing to help Indonesia tackle the fires causing the haze, but efforts faced various obstacles, particularly access to fire sites in remote parts of Kalimantan.

“Our helicopters also cannot operate because the haze is too thick and conditions are dangerous for any flight. Visibility is less than 50 metres, making flying extremely dangerous,” he said.

In a related development, Mohamad Hasan said Malaysia would submit a non-paper at the upcoming ASEAN senior officials’ and foreign ministers’ meetings as part of efforts to strengthen regional mechanisms for addressing transboundary haze.

The move also aims to create an opportunity for the haze issue to be discussed within the framework of natural disasters, while giving ASEAN scope to strengthen regional cooperation.

Media have previously reported that Malaysia would raise the transboundary haze issue at an ASEAN foreign ministers’ meeting ahead of the 49th ASEAN Summit in Manila, the Philippines, next month, to discuss more effective regional mechanisms for dealing with the problem.