Govt may use international legal mechanisms to claim compensation for transboundary haze

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian government is open to exploring international legal mechanisms for seeking compensation regarding transboundary haze pollution. However, the Asean Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution currently lacks provisions for such claims. Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup stated that a thorough study of the economic losses caused by haze, including public health, productivity, and economic activity, is crucial for policy considerations and further actions.

Regarding claims of Malaysian companies being involved in forest burning in Indonesia, Arthur said there was insufficient evidence to confirm this. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and the Plantation and Commodities Ministry are investigating the matter. The government will continue strengthening enforcement cooperation through bilateral and Asean channels, and any parties found responsible for pollution will face legal consequences.