Malaysia awaits Indonesia’s response on haze operation as talks continue, says Fahmi

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 10 — Malaysia is still awaiting a response through official diplomatic channels on arrangements for its offer of firefighting assistance to Indonesia, Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil said.

Fahmi, who is also the government spokesperson, said discussions had taken place directly between the countries’ leaders and expressed hope that their good relations would allow follow-up action.

“I believe that the matter has been conveyed, that discussions have taken place directly with the Indonesian president, and we believe that the good relations today will make it possible for follow-up action to be taken.

“However, so far (as of this morning) no response has been conveyed through Wisma Putra.

“We will wait a little longer,” Fahmi told a press conference after officiating the World Post Day at the Pos Malaysia headquarters here today.

Fahmi was responding to reporters who asked for an update of efforts taken to improve air quality in Malaysia.

He added that current and immediate measures such as temporary shutting schools and postponing school Sports Day were among other actions taken.

“Similarly for other sectors, keep a lookout on updates from respective ministries on next course of action, he said.

Indonesia had earlier agreed to Malaysia’s offer of assistance during Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s meeting with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in September.

Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said on October 7 that the two countries were still negotiating operational arrangements, including how the mission would be carried out and where the Malaysian team would be deployed.

Malaysia’s proposed assistance includes a Bombardier CL-415MP aircraft, three helicopters and 52 officers and personnel from the National Disaster Management Agency, Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency and Royal Malaysian Air Force.