Dr Subra: Indonesia must be more responsible

Health Minister Datuk Dr S Subramaniam has called on Indonesia to be 'more responsible' and take immediate measures on the haze situation.

"We ask indonesia to be more responsible in this matter. To take immediate steps so this can controlled," Subramaniam told reporters at Parliament lobby today.

He stressed that the crisis that the country faces yearly was not a natural disaster but was a man made problem.

"Indonesia must be more firm and bring this to an end," said Subramaniam, adding that treating the cause was better than treating the symptom.

On the allegation that Malaysian firms are involved in the forest fires, Subramaniam said that there is "no evidence to suggest that so far".

"Sime Darby has said it is not involved...and whether it is an Indonesian, Singapore or Malaysian company...this is happening in Indonesian soil and falls under Indonesian law and nobody has a right to break the law of the country he is in."

He said he hoped that drastic steps taken will prevent the same situation in years to come.

Meanwhile, Dr Subramaniam said that government clinics are prepared to face an increase number of patients who fall ill due to the haze.

"We advise everyone to reduce outdoor activities. Stay at home if possible and use proper masks, such as N95, if you need to be out."

Subramaniam said that tiny particles less than 10microns could cause inflamation.

"This can be dangerous to young children, older people, those with asthma, pregnant, and smokers."