Malaysia declares emergency in Sarawak town as haze reaches critical level

Malaysia has declared an emergency in Serian, a town in Sarawak state on Borneo Island, due to severe air pollution caused by fires in Indonesia. The Air Pollutant Index in Serian reached 521, surpassing the emergency threshold, while Kuching, Sarawak’s capital, recorded a hazardous level of 311. This emergency allows for stricter measures, such as halting nonessential work and outdoor activities. The haze, a recurring issue in Southeast Asia, is exacerbated by forest and peat fires in Indonesia, affecting Malaysia, Brunei, and Singapore. Indonesia has identified numerous hot spots from fires and arrested 112 people suspected of starting them. The fires are often set by farmers to clear land cheaply. Indonesia has also suspended the licenses of five companies linked to these fires. This situation highlights the ongoing environmental challenges in the region. QUESTION: How might international cooperation help address the recurring haze problem in Southeast Asia?