“We’re ready to extend assistance” – Anwar Says M’sia Is Ready to Help Indonesia Fight Forest Fires Amid Haze

As transboundary haze continues to impact air quality across parts of Malaysia, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reiterated the country’s readiness to assist Indonesia in combating ongoing forest and land fires.

In a statement shared on Facebook, the Prime Minister acknowledged the severe impact the haze has had on the daily lives and health of Malaysians, noting that the deteriorating air quality has previously forced school closures in several states and affected regions across the country.

Commending Indonesia’s efforts amid tough conditions

Despite the persistent environmental challenge, Prime Minister Anwar commended the Indonesian government for its dedicated efforts in deploying tens of thousands of personnel and various aerial assets to contain the fires.

He highlighted that tackling a disaster of this scale is no easy feat, given the vast expanse of affected land and unpredictable weather patterns that complicate firefighting operations.

“We acknowledge the determination of the Indonesian government, which has deployed tens of thousands of personnel alongside various aerial assets to curb this increasingly concerning issue.

“We realise that addressing such a disaster is not an easy task, especially given the vast size of the affected areas and unpredictable weather challenges,” he wrote.

Strengthening ASEAN cooperation and true neighbourly spirit

Malaysia’s offer goes beyond words, with Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi previously revealing that the country had offered Indonesia a firefighting aircraft, three helicopters, and rescue personnel to help put out forest and land fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan.

According to Utusan Malaysia, Malaysia is still awaiting Indonesia’s response to the offer, which was conveyed during Zahid’s meeting with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka in Jakarta last week.

Meanwhile, Anwar said Malaysia has also proposed cooperation mechanisms at the ASEAN level to strengthen coordination, preparedness, and collective action in addressing transboundary haze.

Reaffirming Malaysia’s willingness to support its neighbor, the Prime Minister emphasised that true ASEAN solidarity requires mutual support during difficult times, with the safety and well-being of the region’s people always remaining the top priority.

“Malaysia remains ready to extend assistance, as previously offered. The true spirit of neighbourliness demands that we support one another when facing adversity, with the safety and well-being of the region’s people always being the utmost priority,” he added.

What are your thoughts on ASEAN’s joint efforts to combat the haze? Let us know in the comments below!

Also read: Anwar Ibrahim: Prabowo Subianto Agrees to Take Action Over Worsening Haze