Malaysian Lawmaker Uses Javanese to Raise Concerns Over Indonesia’s Forest Fires

 

ASEANNETWORKNEWS| Malaysian Member of Parliament Kalam Salan used the Javanese language during a parliamentary debate on Wednesday, October 21, to urge Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to take immediate action to tackle recurring forest and land fires in Indonesia. He said the resulting haze had affected public health and disrupted economic and social activities in Malaysia.

Kalam, who represents Sabak Bernam, said the haze had caused respiratory problems, coughing, throat irritation and breathing difficulties among residents in Malaysia. He also highlighted disruptions to school operations, tourism and plantation activities.

He noted that Indonesian migrant workers in Malaysia were also affected. When haze prevents plantation workers from working, they may lose their income and face difficulties sending money to their families in Indonesia.

Kalam also criticized remarks attributed to Indonesian communications official Syahganda Nainggolan suggesting that Indonesia's forests provide oxygen to Malaysia.

He questioned why the issue was being treated lightly, pointing out that Malaysia also has forests and trees that produce oxygen. He argued that the recurring haze problem should be addressed seriously rather than becoming a subject of jokes.Kalam switched to Javanese to deliver his message directly to Prabowo, explaining that he wanted Indonesian officials to understand his concerns.

“Pak, asap songko kobongan alas kuwi nggawe wong Malaysia susah arep ambegan,” he said, meaning that smoke from forest fires was making it difficult for Malaysians to breathe.

He urged the Indonesian government to extinguish the fires and prevent the haze crisis from recurring every year. He expressed hope that both countries could enjoy clear skies, clean air and healthier living conditions.

Beyond his appeal to Indonesia, Kalam called on the Malaysian government to use diplomatic channels to encourage the Philippines, the 2026 ASEAN chair, to lead stronger regional efforts against transboundary haze.

His proposals included joint enforcement measures, a satellite-based early-warning system, a regional emergency response team, stronger accountability under the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution, and a regional fund for fire prevention and peatland restoration.

Kalam's remarks highlight the continuing regional concerns surrounding forest and land fires and their cross-border effects. Addressing the issue will require effective fire prevention, timely response measures and cooperation among Southeast Asian countries.