Indigenous and civil society groups in Indonesian Borneo have filed a class action lawsuit against the government, accusing it of gross negligence in managing annual wildfires that have caused toxic haze across Southeast Asia.
The lawsuit, filed in West Kalimantan, names President Prabowo Subianto and the governor of West Kalimantan among 10 defendants. It seeks measures to address the recurring wildfires, which are often used to clear land for oil palm plantations. The case also aims to cover healthcare costs for residents affected by the haze.
None of the named defendants attended the initial court hearing, which was adjourned until 21 October. The blazes have worsened this year due to an intense El Niño weather pattern, causing severe air quality issues in Malaysia, Brunei, Singapore, and the Philippines. Schools in Johor, Malaysia, are set to close due to the haze.
Why it matters
Accusations of negligence may force government to accelerate policy changes to prevent future haze outbreaks.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
What to watch
Watch whether the Indonesian government responds to the lawsuit with new fire prevention measures.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.