The Smog, Public Health and the Tourist Ringgit


Aliran regrets the recent decision made by the government not to make public the Air Pollutant Index (API) readings at a time when the smog has returned to Malaysia.

To add insult to injury, Science, Technology and Environment Minister Law Hieng Ding justified the government's stand by saying that publicising the API readings would "drive away the tourists".

This brings us to the vital question: is the tourist ringgit more important than the lives and health of ordinary Malaysians? Has there been a shift of priorities in the Ministry that we ordinary folk do not know of?

It is important for the government to realise that Malaysians have the right to know what's really going on instead instead of shrouding them under a cloud of uncertainty.

The last time we experienced the abominable smog the government also assured us that things were under control, and yet the reality was definitely uncomfortable, even hazardous.

As in many areas in recent times, it is crucial that the government operates with transparency and accountability.


Aliran Executive Committee
5 August 1999