BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam have agreed to use the ASEAN mechanism as an approach to address transboundary haze affecting Sarawak.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the agreement was reached with Sultan of Brunei Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah during the 27th Leaders’ Annual Consultation (ALC-27) between Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam here today (Aug 22).
“Both of us agreed that using the ASEAN mechanism is the best approach,” he was quoted as saying in an UKAS report during a press conference after attending the ALC-27.
The issue of transboundary haze has drawn attention following unhealthy air quality recorded in Sarawak, which resulted in 591 schools being temporarily closed from Aug 20 to 21.
The situation highlighted the need for stronger regional cooperation in addressing haze, particularly as air pollution can cross national borders and affect communities in neighbouring countries.
Yesterday, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) would send a letter to the relevant parties and the ASEAN Secretariat regarding the issue.
The use of the ASEAN mechanism is expected to provide a regional platform for Malaysia and Brunei to strengthen cooperation and coordinate efforts in addressing transboundary haze.
