No firm evidence linking Malaysian companies to Indonesia fires - Arthur
NRES and the Plantation and Commodities Ministry had examined allegations that Malaysian companies were involved in burning activities in Indonesia.
KUALA LUMPUR - There is no conclusive evidence that Malaysian-linked plantation companies were responsible for fires in Indonesia, Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup said.
He said NRES and the Plantation and Commodities Ministry had examined allegations that Malaysian companies were involved in burning activities in Indonesia.
"Based on our assessment to date, there is no conclusive evidence confirming that Malaysian-linked plantation companies were responsible for the fires.
"The government's position is clear that any party proven to be responsible for haze pollution must face appropriate action in accordance with the law,” he said.
Arthur was winding up the debate on the Supply Bill 2027 for his ministry in the Dewan Rakyat today. He was responding to Mohamad Shafizan Kepli (GPS-Batang Lupar), who asked about proposals for specific legislation to address transboundary haze pollution and action against companies found responsible.
Arthur said the proposal to restrict financing for companies proven to be responsible for haze pollution required further scrutiny, particularly regarding the legal basis, evidentiary standards, jurisdiction and implications for the financial sector.
"The ministry has also examined on several occasions the merits of enacting a Transboundary Haze Pollution Act, similar to legislation introduced by a neighbouring country.
"However, implementation would present challenges, particularly in terms of jurisdiction, the collection and verification of evidence overseas, the determination of corporate liability and the implications for the sovereignty of other countries,” he said.
On proposals to seek compensation and damages, Arthur said the Asean Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution (AATHP) did not currently provide a specific mechanism for compensation claims between countries.
"Nevertheless, the government is open to examining the suitability of other legal mechanisms, subject to the availability of a basis under international law.
"A comprehensive study of the economic losses caused by haze, including its effects on public health, productivity and economic activity, is important in providing a scientific and economic basis for policy considerations and follow-up action,” he said. - BERNAMA
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