Why Singapore Keeps Its Haze Forecasts Simple, and What Parliament Heard
Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu told Parliament that too many air quality indicators could confuse the public, and that the current forecasts and mask distribution are meant to be clear and targeted.
- Minister
- Grace Fu, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment
- Date
- 3 November, in Parliament
- Haze in 2026
- More than seven weeks, with unhealthy air from 4 September until around 26 October
- Air quality monitoring stations
- 23 across the country, used for hourly PM2.5 readings
Two Indicators, Not Four
The National Environment Agency gives the public two main indicators: a 24-hour forecast of the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI), and hourly PM2.5 readings. PM2.5 particles are the main pollutant during haze episodes. Fu said these have worked well, and she rejected adding 12, 24 or 48-hour PM2.5 forecasts, arguing that more indicators could complicate public messages. She said the agency’s advice should be clean and succinct, so people can plan their activities easily.
People are advised to use hourly PM2.5 readings for immediate plans, and the 24-hour PSI forecast for outdoor activities the next day. Fu said the one-hour readings are the most accurate guide, while fortnightly forecasts become less reliable the further ahead they look. The agency will keep reviewing its services.
Who Received Masks
The first mask distribution focused on the people most vulnerable to haze or with limited means. These included seniors, pregnant women, children, people with certain medical conditions, and holders of several health and support cards. In the second round, which began on 23 October, all Singaporeans aged 60 and above became eligible, up from 67 and above in the first round. Close to a third of residents qualify under the wider criteria, and about 30 per cent of them had collected masks by 29 October. Fu said eligibility will be reviewed as conditions change.
Impact on Food, Work and Schools
Fu said the haze has not affected Singapore’s food supply, since the country imports food from more than 180 countries and regions. Wholesalers reported that prolonged haze may slow vegetable growth, but the overall effect on local farms has been minimal. Footfall at hawker centres and markets has fallen, but takeaway orders have risen to offset it, and there are no plans for extra haze-specific financial help. Other ministers addressed haze safeguards at pre-schools without air-conditioning, and the protection of outdoor workers.
Regional Cooperation
Fu said Singapore will work with ASEAN members during its 2027 chairmanship to set up a haze centre and tackle the root causes of the pollution.
