Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim says Malaysia has done its best in its haze discussions with Indonesia, according to Bernama. The statement follows weeks of unhealthy air, school closures in several states, and a phone call between Anwar and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto earlier this month.
The phrase done its best can be read in two ways. It may indicate that Malaysia has used the diplomatic channels available, including leader-level contact and regional forums, and that the remaining responsibility lies with fire prevention and firefighting at the source. It may also suggest that Kuala Lumpur cannot control the outcome. I did not see the full remarks, so I cannot say which meaning he intended.
The practical question for Malaysians is whether the air will improve. A separate report today says Indonesia has approved foreign assistance to combat forest fires, which could help if firefighting capacity is expanded. Earlier reports this week said the deputy minister expected the haze to ease within two weeks as wind patterns change, though forecasts of that kind carry uncertainty.
Diplomacy on haze has a long history, including regional agreements, joint monitoring and offers of help. Results have been mixed, partly because the causes involve land use, local enforcement and weather, as well as politics. Malaysians are likely to judge any effort by outcomes: fewer unhealthy days, fewer school closures and clearer skies. In the meantime, continue to check official air quality readings and school announcements, protect vulnerable family members and keep supplies such as masks and medication ready. Watch for news of foreign firefighting teams and any discussion at the coming ASEAN meetings.
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