Transboundary haze law must take into consideration several factors, says minister

Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, Arthur Joseph Kurup, emphasized that any proposed legislation to address transboundary haze must take into account various factors such as effectiveness, diplomatic implications, burden of proof, and enforceability. Kurup highlighted that the effectiveness of a law is contingent not only on its enactment but also on the ability to gather evidence, conduct investigations, and reinforce laws outside Malaysia's jurisdiction.

Responding to a query from Member of Parliament Khoo Poay Tiong regarding the government's consideration of revisiting a Transboundary Haze Act or enacting a Clean Air Act following a recent emergency in Sarawak, Kurup explained that transboundary haze is becoming increasingly complex due to factors like climate variability, prolonged dry spells, and agricultural practices.

The ministry is reportedly drafting specific legislation to tackle transboundary haze, drawing inspiration from Singapore's approach. Undersecretary G Pubadi revealed that they are assessing Singapore's existing mechanisms to formulate a tailored Act. Singapore's Transboundary Haze Pollution Act 2014 provides the city-state with legal authority to act on companies whose activities in Singapore contribute to haze in the neighboring country.

In September 17, the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia urged the government to enact a Clean Air Act to establish legally binding air quality standards and safeguard public health, echoing the US's Clean Air Act of 1963, which aims to control air pollution and protect public health and the environment.