World · Singapore Bureau
Parliament debates haze law overhaul amid questions on enforcement
Lawmakers unanimously backed amendments to strengthen anti-haze legislation during a six-hour parliamentary debate, while raising concerns over a $20 million fine and delays in implementation.
LSN Singapore ·
All 24 members of parliament who participated in the debate expressed support for proposed amendments to strengthen the region's haze control measures, signalling broad political consensus on the need for tougher environmental protections.
During the extended parliamentary session, MPs raised pointed questions about a significant $20 million penalty imposed under existing regulations, seeking clarification on the enforcement of current provisions and their effectiveness in deterring transboundary haze pollution.
The debate also highlighted concerns over delays in the legislative process, with lawmakers questioning the timeline for implementing the proposed strengthened provisions. The extended discussion underscored growing parliamentary attention to transboundary haze, a recurring environmental challenge affecting air quality across the region.
The unanimous backing from all participating MPs suggests the amendments are likely to advance through parliament with cross-party support. Officials have not yet announced a specific date for the legislation to take effect, though the parliamentary momentum indicates prioritisation of the measure.
The proposed amendments represent the latest effort to address haze pollution, which has periodically affected air quality and posed public health concerns across South and Southeast Asia.