Singapore expands haze prevention notices to 10 Indonesian firms as forest fires continue, raising pressure for stronger action against cross-border pollution.
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Singapore has expanded its action against companies linked to forest fires in Indonesia, issuing haze prevention notices to three more firms and bringing the total to 10. The move comes as smoke from fires in Kalimantan continues to affect air quality and raises fresh concerns about how quickly the region can contain the haze.
According to CNA, the National Environment Agency (NEA) announced on October 19 that smoke from fires on land held by the three companies may have reached Singapore. The latest notices follow similar action against seven companies on October 16.
But will notices alone be enough to stop the haze?
The three companies named in the latest action are PT Buana Megatama Jaya, PT Mananjung Hayak and PT Baratama Putra Perkasa. Under the notices, they must deploy firefighting teams, stop ongoing burning and avoid starting new fires. They must also submit plans explaining how they will control the fires and prevent them from returning.
The action falls under Singapore’s Transboundary Haze Pollution Act, which allows authorities to pursue companies whose activities overseas cause or contribute to haze pollution in Singapore.
The government has made clear that it expects companies to act. In its October 19 announcement,
The National Environment Agency (NEA) stated: “NEA remains committed to taking enforcement action against errant companies found responsible for causing transboundary haze in Singapore.”
Can Singapore hold companies accountable when the fires burn beyond its borders?
That question carries both legal and diplomatic weight. CNA reported that legal experts have warned that enforcement against Indonesian companies could affect relations between the two countries. Singapore must show that its laws can address cross-border pollution while continuing to work with Indonesia on fire control.
The problem also extends beyond corporate responsibility. Dry conditions and fires across Indonesia have contributed to poor air quality across Southeast Asia. Reuters reported on October 14 that Singapore recorded its highest PM2.5 pollution level of the year at that point.
Will penalties prevent future fires, or will the same problem return next dry season?
Business Honor observes that Singapore’s latest action puts greater pressure on companies to prevent fires on land they own or occupy. But issuing notices is only the first step. Lasting progress will depend on enforcement, effective firefighting and cooperation with Indonesia. Without those measures, residents could face another season of polluted air despite stronger legal warnings.
FAQS
Why is Singapore issuing haze prevention notices?
Singapore is targeting companies whose land may be linked to fires sending smoke across national borders.
How many Indonesian companies have received notices?
As of October 19, 2026, Singapore had targeted 10 companies under its Transboundary Haze Pollution Act.
Which companies received the latest haze prevention notices?
The latest notices name PT Buana Megatama Jaya, PT Mananjung Hayak and PT Baratama Putra Perkasa.
What must the companies do after receiving notices?
They must deploy firefighting teams, stop burning activities and submit plans to control fires and prevent them from recurring.
Can Singapore take legal action against Indonesian companies?
Yes. Singapore’s Transboundary Haze Pollution Act allows enforcement against companies overseas whose activities cause or contribute to haze pollution in Singapore.
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