Singapore Identifies Seven Companies Behind Haze-Causing Fires in Indonesia

SINGAPORE – The National Environment Agency (NEA) has identified seven companies linked to the haze affecting Singapore, following an investigation that traced fires on their lands in Indonesia. Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu announced on October 16 that these companies are linked to Indonesia's forestry and timber plantation sector, with operations primarily concentrated in South Sumatra and the Bangka Belitung Islands. They have been issued preventive measure notices under Singapore's Transboundary Haze Pollution Act (THPA).

The identified companies are PT Bumi Andalas Permai, PT Bumi Mekar Hijau, PT Paramitra Mulia Langgeng, PT Sumatera Alam Anugerah, PT Sebangun Bumi Andalas Woods Industries, PT Hutan Lestari Raya, and PT Bangkanesia. These notices require the companies to deploy firefighting personnel to extinguish or prevent the spread of fires on their land, cease any burning activities, and submit action plans detailing how they will manage the situation and prevent future occurrences.

“Grace Fu said the NEA will continue to monitor the situation and the companies’ responses to these notices, and where warranted, further action under the THPA will be taken based on the information and evidence available.”Grace Fu, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment

Four of these companies – PT Bumi Andalas Permai, PT Bumi Mekar Hijau, PT Sebangun Bumi Andalas Woods Industries, and PT Rimba Hutani Mas – were also issued similar notices during the 2015 haze crisis, and investigations into their activities from that period remain open. The NEA utilized satellite imagery and meteorological data to identify the companies responsible for the current haze, emphasizing that the investigation relies on information from various sources, not all of which are within Singapore's jurisdiction.

Fu highlighted the agency's commitment to thoroughly investigate all companies involved in causing transboundary haze and indicated that more notices could be issued if further evidence arises. She said that the NEA will continue to monitor the situation and the companies’ responses to these notices, and where warranted, further action under the THPA will be taken based on the information and evidence available.

“Acting Minister for Manpower Jasmin Lau said protecting workers from haze is not optional, emphasizing employers’ legal obligations to ensure worker safety during haze episodes.”Jasmin Lau, Acting Minister for Manpower

In light of the deteriorating air quality, with the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) reaching a “very unhealthy” level and standing at 229 at 3 pm on the day of the press conference, the Singapore government is also reminding employers of their legal obligations to protect workers from haze-related health risks. Acting Minister for Manpower Jasmin Lau reiterated that employers must take reasonable measures to ensure worker safety, particularly when the PSI exceeds 200.

Indonesian coverage of the situation has echoed Singapore's concerns but has also highlighted the complexities surrounding the ownership and operational responsibilities of the identified companies. According to CNBC Indonesia, while the seven companies are linked to timber management in Sumatra, it remains unclear whether they are Indonesian or Singaporean entities. This ambiguity has led to calls from Indonesian commentators for greater transparency regarding the ownership structures of these firms, especially since some are suppliers for major companies like Asia Pulp & Paper, part of the Sinar Mas Group.

Moreover, Indonesian outlets have reported that the Singaporean government is considering additional legal actions against these companies, including potential fines and lawsuits, as part of their ongoing efforts to combat the transboundary haze issue. Grace Fu acknowledged the challenges in enforcing regulations, stating, “This is not easy. I am the first to admit it, but we must try.” In contrast, Indonesian media has focused on the need for collaboration between the two nations, with calls for Singapore to provide support in firefighting efforts, as indicated by Fu's offer to assist Indonesia with technology and resources to mitigate the fires.

As the haze crisis continues, the situation is compounded by ongoing investigations into other firms linked to similar environmental concerns, including palm oil companies identified in a recent Greenpeace report. The differing narratives highlight the complexities of regional environmental governance, where national interests and corporate responsibilities intersect.