In recent decades, large-scale land cultivation and industrial plantations have led to an increase in seasonal fires, particularly on peat soils, in Indonesian forests and farmlands. These fires often result in the dispersion of smoke haze to neighboring countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, and Southern Thailand, causing transboundary haze pollution in Southeast Asia. The consequences of these fires and transboundary haze are substantial, including economic losses, environmental degradation, heightened greenhouse gas emissions, adverse effects on human health, and negative impacts on tourism and business. Over the past two decades, ASEAN has acknowledged the issue of transboundary haze and formulated the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution (AATHP), which came into effect after ratification by all member countries in 2015. However, recurrent transboundary haze incidents raise questions about the effectiveness of addressing this problem in Southeast Asia. This discussion highlights industrial plantations and agricultural activities as the primary drivers of forest and peat fires, leading to transboundary haze pollution in the region. Strengthening the implementation and adoption of the AATHP is urgently needed. Despite challenges associated with the 'ASEAN Way,' regional cooperation and collaborative actions under this agreement should be promoted and reinforced. Member states must rigorously enforce laws related to forest and peat fires and transboundary haze management. Furthermore, a multi-level and cross-sectoral approach should be adopted, emphasizing effective information sharing, close coordination mechanisms, capacity-building initiatives, and the involvement of all relevant stakeholders, including government agencies, private developers, farmers, non-governmental organizations, and local communities.