Singapore takes action against three more Indonesian firms over haze

Singapore has formally notified three Indonesian firms of potential violations under the Transboundary Haze Pollution Act, marking the latest enforcement action in the city-state's efforts to combat regional air pollution.

The three companies—PT Buana Megatama Jaya, PT Mananjung Hayak, and PT Baratama Putra Perkasa—have been identified as contributing to transboundary haze affecting Singapore and the broader Southeast Asian region. The notifications represent an escalation in Singapore's regulatory approach to addressing air quality issues stemming from activities in neighbouring Indonesia.

Singapore's Transboundary Haze Pollution Act provides a legal framework for the government to take action against foreign entities whose activities cause or contribute to haze pollution affecting the island nation. Companies issued notices under the legislation face potential penalties and restrictions.

The action underscores ongoing tensions between Singapore and Indonesia over environmental management, particularly concerning land-clearing and burning practices associated with agricultural and industrial operations. Regional haze events, typically triggered by peat fires and land clearing, have periodically affected air quality across Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei in recent years.

The notifications come as both nations continue negotiations on environmental cooperation and transboundary pollution prevention measures.