Indigenous and civil society groups in Indonesian Borneo have launched a class action lawsuit against the government, accusing it of failing to prevent annual wildfires that spread hazardous smoke across Southeast Asia, disrupt daily life, and worsen respiratory health. The legal action, which includes the president and regional officials among its defendants, demands financial compensation for affected residents and long-term measures to address healthcare costs linked to the fires. Critics argue the government’s response has been inadequate, with the lawsuit framing its inaction as a form of negligence. The case highlights ongoing environmental and public health concerns tied to the recurring crisis.
NGOs in Indonesian Borneo file class action lawsuit calling for government to better manage annual fires and The Indonesian government has been accused of “gross negligence” in a class action lawsuit over its handling of wildfires that have cloaked large parts of South-east Asia in a toxic haze, shuttered schools and caused a spike in respiratory illnesses.The lawsuit, filed by indigenous and civil society groups in the Indonesian part of Borneo, named President Prabowo Subianto and the governor of West Kalimantan among 10 defendants. The case seeks comprehensive recovery and rehabilitation measures that would include covering the healthcare costs of residents. Continue reading...
