ON
← Back to feed
Singapore-listed First Resources welcomes authorities' probe over haze links, including on-ground checks
SG🏛️ PoliticsCenter4 hr. ago

Singapore-listed First Resources welcomes authorities' probe over haze links, including on-ground checks

Singapore-based palm oil producer First Resources has stated that it welcomes investigations by Singaporean authorities into its potential involvement in the transboundary haze crisis. The company emphasized its commitment to a 'zero-burning policy' and expressed confidence that evidence will demonstrate it does not engage in land clearing through fire. It called for a thorough, evidence-based examination of the situation, citing factors such as satellite imagery, documentation of firefighting efforts, and spatial data on conservation areas. This comes amid recent announcements by Singapore's leadership, including Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Senior Minister K Shanmugam, indicating the government's intent to pursue legal and regulatory actions against companies linked to haze-causing fires. The National Environment Agency (NEA) has already issued haze prevention notices to ten companies. While First Resources acknowledges the need for factual verification, it denies any responsibility for the current haze and advocates for collaborative efforts involving governments, corporations, and local communities to address the issue.

Singapore has taken a firm step in addressing the transboundary haze by sending preventive measure notices to seven Indonesian companies identified as responsible for fires contributing to the current haze episode. Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu announced this move during a press conference on Friday (October 16). These notices, issued by the National Environment Agency (NEA) under the Transboundary Haze Pollution Act (THPA), require the companies to deploy firefighting personnel, cease burning activities, and submit action plans to extinguish and prevent future fires on their lands. The seven companies targeted are: PT Bumi Andalas Permai, PT Bumi Mekar Hijau, PT Paramitra Mulia Langgeng, PT Sumatera Alam Anugerah, PT SBA Wood Industries, PT Hutan Lestari Raya, and PT Bangkanesia. According to Fu, the notices are based on investigations conducted by Singapore's authorities, which have tracked hotspots and smoke from fires in the region to determine the companies responsible for the haze. Fu emphasized that the government would continue monitoring the situation and the companies' responses to these notices. Further actions under the THPA would be considered if necessary. While she did not specify immediate penalties, she mentioned that fines or charges remain within the realm of consideration depending on the effectiveness of the initial measures. The identification of these companies involved analyzing satellite imagery and meteorological data, along with information gathered from multiple sources. Some of the data required for these investigations lies outside Singapore's jurisdiction, necessitating collaboration with international sources. The haze has persisted in Singapore for over a week, with the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) reaching a seasonal high of 212 in the western part of the city on October 15. This marks the longest continuous stretch of poor air quality since the 2015 haze crisis. The THPA, enacted in 2014, allows Singapore to act when the PSI stays in the unhealthy range (101 and above) for 24 hours or more. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong confirmed on October 15 that Singapore is investigating companies potentially responsible for the fires. He stated that the government would take appropriate action under the THPA and explore joint initiatives with other countries. Wong acknowledged the difficulty of controlling external factors but reiterated the commitment to protecting Singaporeans. In response to the haze, the government has begun distributing masks, particularly N95 respirators, to vulnerable groups and providing air-conditioned shelters in community centers. The potential rescheduling of O Level examinations is also under consideration should the air quality deteriorate further. Singapore has also reached out to its Indonesian counterparts, offering assistance in firefighting efforts and other measures such as cloud seeding. Indonesian officials have indicated openness to such aid, though specific arrangements are still being finalized. The government's approach reflects lessons learned from previous haze incidents, aiming to enhance enforcement processes and ensure a more effective response to future occurrences. The focus remains on mitigating the impact of the haze on public health and maintaining cooperation with regional neighbors to address the root causes of the problem.

How this report was made. Objective News wrote this report from 2 source articles, using AI-assisted synthesis under our methodology. It is our own text, not a copy of any single outlet. Read our methodology.

Responsible editor: Matej BašaSpotted an error? Report it

9 reports

Channel NewsAsia (CNA) logoChannel NewsAsia (CNA)State / PublicCenterFactual 95Objective 926 days ago
Singapore to send haze prevention notices to 7 companies in Indonesia responsible for fires

Singapore has announced it will issue preventive notices to seven Indonesian companies linked to forest fires that contribute to regional haze. The notices, issued under the Transboundary Haze Pollution Act by the National Environment Agency (NEA), require the companies to take immediate action to extinguish fires on their land and submit plans to prevent future occurrences. Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu stated that the government will continue monitoring the situation and may consider additional measures, including fines, depending on the effectiveness of the notices. While Singapore has previously offered assistance to Indonesia in combating fires, it remains unclear whether Indonesia has accepted the latest offer of support, including civilian firefighting aid and cloud-seeding operations.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about Singapore's legal actions against Indonesian companies contributing to haze pollution. It includes direct quotes from the minister and outlines the procedural steps being taken without overtly favoring one side. There is no evident bias in the framing,措

Why factuality (95): The article clearly identifies the seven companies targeted by Singapore and outlines the requirements placed upon them through the preventive measure notices. This aligns precisely with the cross-source consensus and provides additional specifics not included in earlier articles. The information is

Why objectivity (92): The article is highly neutral in tone, presenting the facts without editorializing or showing favoritism. It includes direct quotes from Minister Grace Fu and provides context about the legal framework and potential future actions. The language is measured and balanced.

The Straits Times logoThe Straits TimesParty-aligned🔒CenterFactual 90Objective 903 days ago
NEA issues notices to three more companies in Indonesia over haze role

Singapore's National Environment Agency (NEA) has issued notices to three additional Indonesian companies, Buana Megatama Jaya, Mananjung Hayak, and Baratama Putra Perkasa, under the Transboundary Haze Pollution Act (THPA). These companies operate oil palm and pulp plantations in Kalimantan, and there are indications that fires on their land contributed to haze affecting Singapore. The notices require the companies to deploy firefighting measures, cease burning activities, and submit action plans to prevent future fires. This brings the total number of companies targeted under the THPA to 10. Earlier, seven companies in Sumatra were identified using satellite and meteorological data, with nine being pulp plantations and one an oil palm plantation. Four of these 10 companies supply Asia Pulp & Paper (APP), a major firm linked to past haze episodes. Some of these companies previously received similar notices during the 2015 haze crisis.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about legal actions taken by Singapore's NEA against Indonesian companies linked to haze pollution. It does not exhibit overtly biased language, one-sided sourcing, or omission of context. The content remains neutral in tone, focusing on procedural actions,公司

Why factuality (90): The article clearly lists the three new companies issued notices under the THPA and provides specific details about their operations. It aligns with other sources about the total number of companies and their types (pulp vs. oil palm plantations). The reference to Asia Pulp & Paper (APP) and its con

Why objectivity (90): The article presents the information objectively, using direct quotes from NEA and quoting Minister Grace Fu. It avoids emotional language and remains focused on the factual aspects of the legal notices and the companies involved.

The Straits Times logoThe Straits TimesParty-aligned🔒CenterFactual 90Objective 903 days ago
Asia Pulp & Paper, tied to haze-linked suppliers, given temporary restrictions by SEC

Asia Pulp & Paper (APP), a company linked to past haze incidents in Southeast Asia, has been placed under temporary restrictions by Singapore's Environment Council (SEC). This follows recent fires caused by its suppliers' land operations in South Sumatra, Indonesia, contributing to regional haze. Under the new restrictions, APP must report daily on fire responses and implement stricter monitoring to prevent and suppress fires in its suppliers' concession areas. Failure to comply could lead to the suspension of its SGLS+ certification, which allows the use of the green label on its products. The affected suppliers, Bumi Mekar Hijau, Bumi Andalas Permai, and Sebangun Bumi Andalas, are among those previously involved in the 2015 haze crisis. Singapore's National Environment Agency (NEA) has issued legal notices to 10 Indonesian companies, including four linked to APP, demanding an end to illegal burning and fire suppression plans.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about regulatory actions taken by Singapore's Environment Council against a company linked to environmental issues. It does not exhibit overtly biased language, one-sided sourcing, or omission of context. The content focuses on procedural and environmental监管,

Why factuality (90): The article accurately describes the temporary restrictions placed on Asia Pulp & Paper (APP) by the Singapore Environment Council (SEC) due to its suppliers' involvement in haze-causing fires. It references the specific suppliers and aligns with other articles about the 10 companies targeted by NEA

Why objectivity (90): The article remains neutral in tone, focusing on the actions taken by the SEC and the implications for APP. It does not express opinion or bias but rather presents the facts as reported by the SEC and NEA.

The Straits Times logoThe Straits TimesParty-aligned🔒CenterFactual 90Objective 886 days ago
NEA has sent legal notices to 7 companies under haze law, will take further action where warranted

Singapore's National Environment Agency (NEA) will issue legal notices to seven Indonesian companies suspected of contributing to the transboundary haze affecting the country. These notices, issued under the Transboundary Haze Pollution Act (THPA), require the companies to stop burning on their lands and submit plans to extinguish existing fires. Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu stated that investigations using satellite imagery and meteorological data identified these companies as contributors to the haze. The government anticipates the haze will persist for three to four weeks and has prepared measures such as distributing masks and potentially rescheduling exams if conditions worsen. This follows Prime Minister Lawrence Wong's earlier statement that Singapore would investigate and take action against companies responsible for haze-causing fires.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information regarding legal actions taken by Singapore's government under the THPA. It includes direct quotes from officials and outlines the procedures being followed without apparent bias toward any particular political stance. There is no indication of loaded language

Why factuality (90): This article provides detailed information about the seven companies targeted by Singapore under the THPA, aligning with the cross-source consensus. It explains the process used by NEA to identify these companies and the legal notices being issued. The content is well-supported and consistent with o

Why objectivity (88): The article remains largely objective but slightly leans toward emphasizing Singapore's proactive approach in addressing the haze issue. While it presents factual information, the phrasing occasionally highlights Singapore's efforts in a positive light, which could be seen as a minor tilt.

The Straits Times logoThe Straits TimesParty-aligned🔒CenterFactual 85Objective 906 days ago
Singapore looking into which companies responsible for haze-causing fires: PM Wong

Singapore's Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has announced that the government is investigating which companies are responsible for the haze caused by fires. He emphasized that Singapore will take legal action against those found accountable under the Transboundary Haze Pollution Act when necessary.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a straightforward statement from the prime minister regarding an environmental issue and potential legal actions. There is no evident framing that favors one side over another, and the content remains focused on the factual announcement without overtly biased language or one-sid

Why factuality (85): The article accurately reports PM Wong's statements regarding Singapore's investigation into companies responsible for haze-causing fires and mentions the Transboundary Haze Pollution Act. It includes quotes from both PM Wong and Indonesian Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Nasir, aligning with the cross-

Why objectivity (90): The article maintains a neutral tone, presenting facts without overt bias. It quotes officials and provides context about Singapore's actions and cooperation with Indonesia. The language is factual and avoids emotional or loaded terms.

Channel NewsAsia (CNA) logoChannel NewsAsia (CNA)State / PublicCenterFactual 85Objective 852 days ago
Singapore-listed First Resources welcomes authorities' probe over haze links, including on-ground checks

Singapore-based palm oil producer First Resources has stated that it welcomes investigations by Singaporean authorities into its potential involvement in the transboundary haze crisis. The company emphasized its commitment to a 'zero-burning policy' and expressed confidence that evidence will demonstrate it does not engage in land clearing through fire. It called for a thorough, evidence-based examination of the situation, citing factors such as satellite imagery, documentation of firefighting efforts, and spatial data on conservation areas. This comes amid recent announcements by Singapore's leadership, including Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Senior Minister K Shanmugam, indicating the government's intent to pursue legal and regulatory actions against companies linked to haze-causing fires. The National Environment Agency (NEA) has already issued haze prevention notices to ten companies. While First Resources acknowledges the need for factual verification, it denies any responsibility for the current haze and advocates for collaborative efforts involving governments, corporations, and local communities to address the issue.

Bias read (Center): The article presents both the company's position and the government's stance without overtly favoring either side. It includes direct quotes from the company and government officials, providing balanced perspectives on the issue. There is no evident editorializing or biased language that would skew

Why factuality (85): The article accurately reports First Resources' welcome of on-the-ground inspections and its confidence in proving it does not engage in land clearing by fire. It references statements from Singapore's leaders and aligns with other articles about the NEA's actions and the government's intentions. Ho

Why objectivity (85): The article presents the company's position neutrally, quoting its statements and those of Singapore's leaders. While it mentions the company's confidence in its position, it does not take sides or present alternative viewpoints.

The Straits Times logoThe Straits TimesParty-aligned🔒CenterFactual 85Objective 852 days ago
Behind the blazes: ST looks at 10 firms issued notices under S’pore haze law

Singapore's National Environment Agency (NEA) has issued legal notices to 10 Indonesian plantation companies under the Transboundary Haze Pollution Act, demanding they halt fires on their land and submit prevention plans. These companies operate primarily in South Sumatra and Kalimantan, regions known for frequent haze-causing fires. Using satellite data, wind patterns, and concession maps, NEA traced the origin of the haze to these firms. Repeat offenders include three companies previously targeted in 2015 during a similar haze crisis. Senior Minister K. Shanmugam emphasized that companies cannot avoid accountability by hiding behind corporate structures or claiming fires originate outside their plantations. Singapore is considering additional economic pressures to ensure compliance. Four of the 10 firms are linked to Asia Pulp and Paper (APP), a major Indonesian pulp and paper company with operations in Singapore.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about Singapore's enforcement actions against Indonesian companies responsible for haze pollution. It includes quotes from officials, mentions legal frameworks, and outlines the potential consequences for non-compliance. There is no overtly biased language, o

Why factuality (85): The article provides specific details about the 10 Indonesian firms targeted under Singapore's haze law, citing the National Environment Agency (NEA) and referencing Minister Grace Fu's statement. It aligns with other articles that mention the same companies and the use of satellite data and concess

Why objectivity (85): The article maintains a neutral tone, presenting the facts without overt bias. It quotes officials and explains the legal framework without editorializing or taking sides.

Channel NewsAsia (CNA) logoChannel NewsAsia (CNA)State / PublicCenterFactual 85Objective 852 days ago
Indonesia holds off on foreign help to fight forest fires, says it can manage on its own

Indonesia has declined foreign assistance in managing ongoing forest and land fires, stating it can handle the situation with its own resources. The government has not officially declared the fires a national disaster, which would allow international aid. Neighboring countries like Singapore and Malaysia have offered help, but Indonesia remains cautious due to potential logistical challenges. Indonesian officials mentioned that discussions regarding foreign assistance are ongoing at the technical level, though no formal declaration has been made yet. Meanwhile, Singapore’s leadership praised Indonesia’s recent measures to address the haze crisis.

Bias read (Center): The article presents both Indonesia's stance on rejecting foreign aid and neighboring countries' offers of assistance without overtly favoring any side. It includes quotes from multiple officials and does not exhibit biased language or selective sourcing.

Why factuality (85): The article accurately reports Indonesia's decision to hold off on foreign assistance unless a national disaster is declared. It cites Coordinating Minister Dudung Abdurachman and references statements from neighboring countries like Singapore and Malaysia. However, it does not provide specific deta

Why objectivity (85): The article remains neutral in tone, presenting the official stance of Indonesia and the responses from neighboring countries. It avoids taking sides or expressing opinion, focusing on the factual details of the situation and the international reactions.

Channel NewsAsia (CNA) logoChannel NewsAsia (CNA)State / PublicCenter4 hr. ago
Haze hits vegetable imports into Singapore, shrinking produce and pushing up prices

Prolonged haze across Southeast Asia is disrupting vegetable production in Malaysia and Indonesia, leading to significantly smaller produce and rising costs for importers in Singapore. Wholesalers report that iceberg lettuce from Malaysia has shrunk by approximately 50 percent since early October, while supplies of specific crops from Java have dropped by up to 80 percent. Experts attribute these changes to reduced sunlight levels that inhibit photosynthesis and slow plant growth, noting that vast areas of regional farmland have been exposed to poor air quality. In response to tightening supplies, local vendors are experiencing price increases, with cabbage prices from Indonesia rising by at least 50 percent in recent weeks. To maintain inventory, some businesses are actively seeking alternative suppliers from countries such as China and Vietnam.

Bias read (Center): The article focuses exclusively on market dynamics, agricultural yields, and supply chain adjustments resulting from environmental factors. There is no discussion of government policy, regulatory failures, or partisan politics, making the subject apolitical and the framing neutral.

How each side covered it

The same event, grouped by the political lean of the outlets covering it.

How each side covered it

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Covered around the world

The same event as reported in other countries.

Covered around the world

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Claims check

Key factual claims, and how many sources assert vs dispute each.

Claims check

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Keep the news honest.

ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €4/month.

Become a Supporter

Related stories