Singapore Commits To ASEAN Environment Agenda Amid Geopolitical, Climate Challenges
By Anas Abu Hassan
SINGAPORE, May 7 (Bernama) -- Singapore is deeply committed to supporting and advancing ASEAN's climate and environment agenda as the region faces a “perfect storm” caused by geopolitical developments and climate change, said Minister for Sustainability and Environment Grace Fu.
Speaking at the 13th Singapore Dialogue on Sustainable World Resources on Thursday, she said both developments may severely affect the region’s agri-commodity sector, with downstream impacts on jobs, public health, and food security.
Fu noted that ASEAN member states under the leadership of the Philippines this year have been quick to respond to the situation in West Asia.
"Last week, ASEAN convened a Special ASEAN Ministers on Agriculture and Forestry Meeting on the Latest Situation in the Middle East.
“The members adopted a statement reaffirming the importance of regional cooperation in safeguarding food security and agricultural supply chains through open markets and the avoidance of trade restrictions,” she said.
Fu also highlighted that a warmer-than-usual dry season is also expected in coming months, with some meteorological agencies forecasting a “Godzilla El Nino” cycle.
"The World Meteorological Organisation predicts that this will amplify the impacts of climate change, including potential droughts in Southeast Asia.
"The projected hotter and drier conditions later this year could trigger more intense land and forest fires and generate smoke haze," she said.
Therefore, Fu emphasised that Singapore will continue to work with ASEAN member states through the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution and the Sub-Regional Ministerial Steering Committee on Transboundary Haze Pollution.
"We should remain vigilant to the heightened risks of haze this year, in view of the warmer-than-usual dry season prediction," she added.
-- BERNAMA
