Singapore targets 10 Indonesian firms in haze crackdown

Singapore is intensifying its legal crackdown on Indonesian companies linked to regional forest fires and transboundary haze. The National Environment Agency (NEA) has issued preventive measure notices to a total of 10 Indonesian firms under the Transboundary Haze Pollution Act (THPA).

Seven notices were initially issued regarding fires in Sumatra, while three additional notices target companies in Kalimantan, including PT Buana Megatama Jaya, PT Mananjung Hayak, and PT Baratama Putra Perkasa. These notices require companies to deploy firefighters, cease burning activities, and submit prevention plans. While these notices do not constitute a finding of legal guilt, they allow for future prosecution and financial penalties.

Senior Minister K. Shanmugam stated that the government will use all legal, regulatory, and economic instruments to hold responsible parties accountable, warning that companies cannot use complex corporate structures to avoid responsibility. Investigations have also highlighted links between major entities like Asia Pulp & Paper (APP) and suppliers who have received NEA notices.

The situation has sparked diplomatic tension. Former Indonesian Trade Minister Muhammad Lutfi criticized Singapore’s actions, suggesting they are intended to appease domestic voters. He also noted that several companies involved are listed on the Singapore Exchange (SGX). In response, some Singaporean figures have defended the government's stance, emphasizing the need for accountability regarding environmental impact.