Measures Beyond Existing Haze Response Plans to be Activated for Public Health Given Recent Outlook Report

Ms Joan Pereira asked the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment in light of the Singapore Institute of International Affairs' Haze Outlook 2026 report (a) what additional contingency measures, beyond existing haze response plans, will be activated for public health; and (b) whether the Ministry will review and enhance public communication protocols for schools and employers ahead of the expected peak risk period.

The southern ASEAN region has entered the dry season, with conditions this year expected to be drier and warmer than usual due to the development of the El Niño climate phenomenon. These conditions increase the risk of fires and the possibility of transboundary haze affecting Singapore.

On 3 August 2026, the ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC) activated Alert Level 2 for the Southern ASEAN region, which indicates an increased risk of transboundary haze. Smoke haze has been observed to drift from Kalimantan into Sarawak in recent days. At present, prevailing winds are not directing haze towards Singapore. The Meteorological Service Singapore (MSS) expects dry weather in the region over the next week which could increase the risk of transboundary haze affecting Singapore should burning intensify in Kalimantan and southern Sumatra. We are monitoring the situation closely.

Government agencies which are part of the Haze Task Force, chaired by the National Environment Agency (NEA), stand ready to roll out their respective action plans should air quality be impacted by transboundary haze. Our priority is to protect the health of the public, particularly vulnerable groups, and to ensure that daily life and essential services can continue as normally as possible. We have ensured that national mask stockpiles are sufficient, and that schools, preschools, and residential and care facilities are equipped with air purifiers.

We have also stepped-up public communications efforts in view of the heightened risk of transboundary haze affecting Singapore. Since May 2026, media releases, social media content and educational videos have been rolled out to help the public better understand haze risks and the protective measures available. NEA will continue to work with the media to support timely reporting on air quality and health advisories, so that schools, employers and the wider public can stay well-informed and respond accordingly should air quality be affected. Members of the public may refer to the NEA website, the haze microsite, the myENV app and NEA's social media channels for the latest updates.