Civil groups push Parliament for stronger haze accountability measures

Civil society groups marched to Parliament on Tuesday to present evidence linking corporate activities to transboundary haze pollution, reigniting pressure on the government to expedite passage of stronger accountability laws.

The organisations cited recent findings documenting the environmental and health impacts of haze episodes that regularly affect Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei during dry seasons. They called for legislative measures that would hold companies responsible for activities contributing to regional air pollution, particularly land-clearing practices in neighbouring countries.

Parliamentary representatives received the delegations, with advocates emphasising the need for swift action given the recurring nature of the haze problem. The groups argued that existing frameworks lack sufficient teeth to deter corporate practices that degrade air quality across borders.

The push comes amid ongoing diplomatic discussions between affected nations on managing transboundary pollution. Malaysian authorities have previously acknowledged the complexity of enforcing environmental standards across jurisdictions, though environmental groups contend that stronger domestic legislation could strengthen the country's negotiating position in regional forums.

The issue remains a significant public health and environmental concern, with previous haze episodes triggering respiratory health alerts and prompting school closures across the region. Advocates say comprehensive legislative reform is essential to prevent future crises.