IN RECENT weeks Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos suffered dense and unhealthy air pollution caused by land and forest fires. Weather forecasts are uncertain, but there is a chance the problem will persist and spread, impacting even more countries in the region.

Malaysia is already experiencing bouts of haze. On Apr 18, air pollution indicators briefly spiked into the unhealthy range in parts of the country. While the situation remains under control, health authorities cautioned residents to limit their time outdoors and mask up if the haze gets worse. The Malaysian minister for natural resources, environment, and climate change, Nik Nazmi, has confirmed that the haze stems from open burning, citing anti-burning measures that Malaysia has taken in recent weeks.

Thus far, others in Asean – including Singapore and Indonesia – have not been affected. Currently, the weather in the southern parts of Asean is still relatively wet, with occasional heavy wind and rain. However, the weather pattern is shifting, with increasing heat and dry spells expected to worsen by May or June.