PHNOM PENH: The return of hazardous haze looms over mainland Southeast Asia as sporadic forest fires in Thailand and Cambodia raise alarm.
With the dry season approaching, the region braces for worsening air pollution, reminiscent of the 1997 haze crisis that caused RM40 billion (US$9 billion) in damages.
Slash-and-burn farming between December and April exacerbates the problem, pushing Thailand’s PM2.5 levels to unhealthy highs.
In response, Thailand has signed an ASEAN pact to combat transboundary smog, setting a proactive example.
“Thailand has been a regional leader in tackling PM2.5 pollution. Other ASEAN countries should follow suit,” said Dr Helena Varkkey of Universiti Malaya.
The ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre reported dry conditions across the Mekong sub-region, with satellite imagery showing hotspots in Cambodia and Myanmar.
Smoke haze has been detected in central Myanmar and Thailand, pushing air quality to unhealthy levels.
Despite ASEAN’s 1997
Regional Haze Action Plan and the 2002 Transboundary Haze Pollution Agreement, the issue persists.
A severe haze episode in 2015 underscored ongoing challenges, compounded by climate change and urban pollution.
Experts stress the need for stronger cooperation at government, corporate, and community levels.
“There’s a gap in meteorological and pollution monitoring capacity between Indochinese and other ASEAN states. More knowledge-sharing is needed,” Dr. Helena noted.
Haze threatens public health, economies, and food security, yet ASEAN’s response remains slow, hindered by mistrust and economic complexities.
“The lack of transparency and cross-border investments in haze-producing industries blur accountability, leading to finger-pointing and cautious negotiations,” she added.
Without stronger action, ASEAN’s vision for a haze-free future remains in jeopardy. – BERNAMA
