Singapore and Indonesia have taken a significant step towards combating the persistent issue of forest fires and the resulting transboundary haze affecting Southeast Asia. The two countries have agreed to establish a joint task force aimed at enhancing accountability and preventing future incidents. This initiative, announced after a meeting between Indonesian Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Nasir and Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan in Jakarta on October 27, will prioritize information sharing, financial intelligence, cross-border evidence gathering, and asset recovery from companies linked to these fires.
The collaboration seeks to strengthen enforcement against businesses suspected of deliberately burning land, a practice that has repeatedly led to severe air quality issues across the region. Singapore has expressed its willingness to share information about companies involved, while Singapore’s legal and regulatory powers, along with economic measures, will be leveraged to deter such activities.
In response to the ongoing situation, Singapore’s National Environment Agency has already issued notices to Indonesian companies suspected of contributing to haze pollution and has requested information from Singapore-based companies under the Transboundary Haze Pollution Act. Meanwhile, Indonesia has deployed substantial resources, including about 71,000 ground personnel and 51 aerial units, to fight the fires in priority provinces. Efforts have also been made to modify weather and conduct water-bombing operations, alongside investigations and prosecutions of individuals and companies linked to fire-related offenses.
The ministers highlighted the severe impact of the fires on communities, particularly in Sumatra and Kalimantan, emphasizing the need for responsible business practices and appropriate consequences for those involved in deliberate burning. This bilateral initiative is part of a broader commitment to enhancing regional cooperation and strengthening the unity and resilience of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Additionally, Singapore and Indonesia are looking forward to celebrating 60 years of diplomatic relations in 2027, with both countries committed to maintaining open dialogue and close coordination. A dedicated hotline at the ministerial and senior-official levels will be established to address any disagreements and ensure continuous communication, further solidifying their partnership in tackling regional challenges.