Singapore forms specialist panel to probe transboundary haze sources

Singapore has established a specialist investigative panel to examine entities that may have caused or contributed to the transboundary haze affecting the city-state. The Ministry of Law and National Environment Agency announced the appointment of a King's Counsel alongside six firms to lead the probe into companies linked to fires responsible for the haze.

The panel will focus on identifying and investigating organisations whose activities may have generated or exacerbated the haze problem. Authorities indicated that the composition of the panel remains flexible, with provision for additional members to be incorporated should the investigation require further expertise or resources.

The move reflects Singapore's ongoing efforts to address the recurrent haze issue that affects air quality and public health. By engaging external specialist expertise through the King's Counsel and appointed firms, the investigation aims to establish clear accountability and gather evidence that may inform regulatory or legal action.

The establishment of this panel underscores the authorities' commitment to tackling transboundary air pollution through thorough investigation and evidence gathering. Officials have not disclosed specific timelines for the investigation or indicated which companies may be under initial scrutiny.