Indonesia is facing criticism for its response to a crisis involving forest and land fires that have created haze affecting neighboring Malaysia and Singapore. Despite the backlash, government officials insist that the country is not to blame for the situation. The president stated that a reduction in firefighting efforts has led to fewer fires. One spokesperson mentioned that neighboring countries should appreciate the oxygen provided by Indonesia’s forests and not complain only when they experience smoke.
Malaysia has indicated that it is still waiting for a response regarding its offer to assist in fighting the fires. Singapore has raised the possibility of taking legal action against companies linked to the fires. Indonesian officials have acknowledged the effects of the fires on neighboring countries, but as of October 16, they had not issued a public apology for the haze that has impacted air quality in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.
Syahganda Nainggolan, head of the government communications office, suggested that Malaysia and Singapore should view the problem as being beyond human error and as a natural occurrence. He emphasized that Indonesia does not only send smoke but also provides oxygen when there is no haze. His comments have drawn criticism in Malaysia, particularly from Andrew Chen Kah Eng, a politician from the Prime Minister’s party.
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Source: Mongabay Animals, by Hans Nicholas Jong