S’pore weighs action against firms linked to haze

Prime minister Lawrence Wong said Singapore was exploring the possibility of joint action with other countries to tackle the haze caused by forest and peatland fires in Indonesia. (EPA Images pic) SINGAPORE: Singapore is looking into companies that may be responsible for forest fires in Indonesia, which have worsened haze conditions in the region, prime minister Lawrence Wong said.

He said the government would take action under the Singapore’s Transboundary Haze Pollution Act where warranted, while exploring the possibility of joint action with other countries.

The Act allows Singaporean authorities to prosecute and fine companies - even if the illegal land-clearing or burning takes place outside of Singapore in neighbouring countries.

"The haze stems from forest and peatland fires in Indonesia, made worse by the extended dry period.

"We have offered our assistance to Indonesia, and will continue working closely with them and our Asean partners to address the issue," Wong said in his Facebook post tonight.

He said the government would do everything it can to protect Singaporeans, while working with neighbouring countries to address the underlying causes of the haze.

"We cannot control the weather or the winds, nor can we directly control what happens beyond our borders," he said, adding that the government will ensure that support is available to those who need it.