Shahrul Mizan Ismail argues that the Malaysian government should move beyond issuing health advisories and instead pursue legal action against entities responsible for transboundary haze. Recent data from the Department of Environment linked poor air quality in Kuala Lumpur to fire hotspots in Kalimantan and Sumatra. While these findings confirm the regional origin of the pollution, the author emphasizes the necessity of a rigorous investigative process to pinpoint specific companies or land managers accountable for the environmental damage. By establishing a clear legislative framework and setting firm deadlines for legal proceedings, Malaysia could hold cross-border polluters liable for their actions. The proposal highlights a shift toward proactive legal strategies to address the recurring issue of regional smoke, moving from mere public safety warnings to direct corporate accountability for the environmental and health impacts caused by land management practices in neighboring countries.
Source : Malay Mail
Photo : Malay Mail
