Indonesia and Singapore face diplomatic tensions over resources and haze

Diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Singapore have faced significant strain following a series of disputes involving natural resources, energy supplies, and environmental issues. Tensions escalated after Indonesia reduced gas supplies to Singapore and addressed concerns regarding the export of natural resources through Singapore, which officials argue deprives Indonesia of optimal economic benefits.

Environmental disputes regarding forest and land fires (karhutla) have also fueled the friction. While Indonesian officials have faced criticism regarding haze, Indonesian police reports indicate that 16 out of 20 companies suspected of involvement in forest fires are local Indonesian firms, with only four being foreign entities, including companies from Singapore and Malaysia.

In response to the friction, Singaporean Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan met with President Prabowo Subianto in Hambalang to seek bilateral progress. Meanwhile, Indonesian officials, including Coordinating Minister for Law and Human Rights Yusril Ihza Mahendra, have issued warnings that Indonesia will take retaliatory measures if its national interests are not respected.