Haze in Singapore and Malaysia Reaches Worst Level

Posted by Kama Yasa on 19th June, 2013

Smoke haze from forest fires in Indonesia Singapore and Malaysia reached the worst level in 16 years. Local authorities issued a health warning.

Pollutant Standard Index (PSI) reached 155 on Monday night local time, well above the healthy limit of 100. It was the highest level since 1997.

Local authorities warned residents to avoid outdoor physical activity. People who are prone diseases should also stay indoors. Smog is expected to last for the next few days.

In Singapore, unobstructed view of the mist and smell the smell of firewood in the city. Several Malaysian states are also experiencing the same thing. Air quality reaches unhealthy levels.

In a statement, Singapore's National Environment Agency said the wind carried the smoke from fires in Sumatra, Indonesia.

"We urge the Indonesian authorities to take steps mitigate transboundary haze pollution," said the statement quoted by the BBC.

Singapore's Environment Minister, Vivian Balakrishnan blamed the commercial interests of Indonesia forest fires cause environmental problems. However, Indonesian officials said the Singaporean and Malaysian investors responsible for the fire.

"The technique is used as a burn land clearing methods are not only used the cheapest and local farmers, but also employees of oil palm investors including Singapore and Malaysian companies," said an official at the Indonesian Ministry of Forestry, Hadi Daryanto.

He expects the government of Malaysia and Singapore will tell investors to adopt appropriate measures. Thus, they can solve the problem together. Indonesian authorities said firefighters have been deployed to tackle fires.

Last changed: 19th June, 2013 at 10:06 AM