Economic and human security in Southeast Asia: an analysis of how transboundary haze challenges the ASEAN way and Malaysia's environmental governance

This study investigates the persistent issue of Transboundary Haze Pollution (THP) in Southeast Asia, focusing on Malaysia's vulnerability within the ASEAN governance framework. Largely driven by Indonesian slash-and-burn agriculture, THP has plagued the region especially Malaysia for decades, with severe episodes in 1997, 2013, 2015, and 2019, disrupting public health, economies, and ecosystems. While economic interests, particularly the palm oil industry, dominate discussions, this study emphasises the overlooked human and environmental security concerns, especially the violation of rights to clean air and a safe environment. The research critically examines ASEAN’s approach to THP, highlighting the ASEAN Way of its consultation, consensus, and non-interference which limits effective environmental governance. Additionally, the study assesses Malaysia’s legal and policy frameworks to identify gaps in addressing THP. Grounded in Neoliberal Institutionalism, the concept of Complex Interdependence and Regime Theory, this study critically examines ASEAN’s role in fostering regional cooperation, with particular emphasis on how the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution (AATHP) operates as a governance regime for managing THP. The study aims to: (1) analyse the influence of economic and human security in THP mitigation, (2) evaluate the effectiveness of the ASEAN Way, and (3) investigate the demerits in Malaysia’s environmental governance. Through qualitative interviews, including eight key informants, the research highlights tensions between economic growth driven by the palm oil sector and the environmental and human costs of haze pollution. Findings reveal that while AATHP facilitates dialogue, enforcement is weak due to member states prioritising national interests. Malaysia’s governance shortcomings include a lack of specific THP legislation, weak enforcement, reactive governance, diplomacy prioritisation, and complacency challenges. The study concludes by proposing best practices from other countries, advocating for a more integrated, cooperative, and rights-based approach to achieve a balance between economic development, environmental sustainability, and human security in Southeast Asia.