Malaysian Companies Accused of Causing Indonesia's Forest Fires  

TEMPO.CO, Pekanbaru - Indonesian Environment Minister Balthasar Kambuaya says that eight Malaysian companies are suspected of causing the forest fires in Riau and central Jambi, North Sumatra, that have led to thick smog covering some parts of Indonesia, Singapore and Malaysia.  

The initials of eight companies are LIH, BRS, TMP, ULD, AP, JJP, MGI, and MAL.

"Once we have enough evidence, we will take them to court," said Balthazar yesterday. 

Balthazar said the investigation team from the Indonesian Environment Ministry discovered burning in concessions owned by these Malaysian companies. The team is currently investigating the fires in other areas. 

Balthasar plans to meet with Malaysia’s Natural Resources and Environment Minister Datuk Seri G. Palanivel to report that Malaysian companies are causing the haze. The two ministers will discuss how to overcome the smog that has blanketed Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia this past week. 

Palanivel insisted that all ASEAN nations need to discuss this issue and push Indonesia to immediately ratify theSoutheast Asian Transboundary Haze Agreement (SEATHA). He asked for a meeting with ministers in ASEAN countries about the trans-boundary haze a month ahead of the scheduled time next month. 

RIYAN NOFITRA| RUMBADI DALLE| ISTIQOMATUL| THE STAR