Singapore Investigates Companies Over Severe Transboundary Haze
Singapore is collecting data to prosecute companies under the Transboundary Haze Pollution Act as air quality reaches very unhealthy levels due to Indonesian forest fires.
The Government of Singapore is investigating companies responsible for forest and peatland fires in Indonesia that have caused severe regional haze. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced on October 15 that the state may take legal action under the Transboundary Haze Pollution Act, which allows for the prosecution of companies causing pollution in Singapore regardless of where their activities occur. The act carries fines of up to S$100,000 per day, capped at S$2 million.
Air quality deteriorated sharply throughout mid-October, with the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) peaking at 212 in western Singapore on October 15. Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu stated that the government is keeping its options open regarding prosecutions while reviewing collected data. To protect citizens, Singapore has distributed N95 masks to vulnerable groups and opened air-conditioned respite centers in community clubs.
In Indonesia, President Prabowo Subianto has approved foreign assistance to combat the fires, which were exacerbated by El Nino and an extended dry period. While Indonesian Environment Minister Jumhur Hidayat previously noted that fire intensity was declining and expected them to be extinguished within a month, the government is now processing technical proposals for firefighting help. Singapore has offered assistance and is coordinating with other ASEAN partners to address the crisis.
