Once again, Malaysia is shrouded in smoke-filled air. This is now becoming an "annual" affair much to the annoyance of Indonesia's neighbours. This problem which was raised by the Friends of the Earth in 1997 shows no sign of resolution.
This smog has caused much friction between Indonesia and her neighbours particularly with Singapore. Singapore suffering under a polluted air with a Pollutant Standards Index of 401 on 21.6.2013 "accused" Indonesia was not doing enough to address this problem. Indonesia retorted that the culprits are not entirely Indonesians but companies owned by Singaporeans and Malaysians.
My suggestion: Very severe penalty to be imposed on companies found to be carrying out open burning. May be RM10m at a time - an amount that hurts! Of course, many doubt whether this can be implemented and enforced in a country like Indonesia!
The sky at my house on 21.6. 2013. Air Pollutant Index reported to be 79.
The sky at my house on 22.6.2013. Patches of clouds are now visible.
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