Gasping for clean air: Singapore battles relentless haze as Prime Minister Wong warns of action
Singapore continues to grapple with severe haze that is disrupting daily life and businesses, as authorities roll out protective measures — and issue warnings.
Key points
- Singapore's air quality turned unhealthy on Sept. 4 due to smoke from Indonesian wildfires.
- Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said companies behind the fires could face legal action.
- Seletar Airport saw 16 diversions as haze disrupted travel and outdoor businesses.
Singapore is dealing with severe haze as smoke from wildfires in Indonesia's Kalimantan region drifts into the city-state. Air quality remained unhealthy on Thursday, according to the National Environment Agency. The pollution first reached unhealthy levels on Sept. 4, the first time in nearly three years, government data showed.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said in a post on X Thursday night that the government is investigating companies potentially responsible for the forest and peatland fires in Indonesia. He said authorities could take legal action under Singapore's Transboundary Haze Pollution Act where warranted and are exploring joint action with other countries.
Impact on travel and business
Seletar Airport has seen 16 diversions due to low visibility, spokespeople for Changi Airport Group and the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore told CNBC. Some outdoor dining establishments, including restaurants and hawker centers, reported a drop in business, according to local media.
A Marina Bay Sands spokesperson told CNBC that certain outdoor experiences involving prolonged exposure have been temporarily suspended, and the hotel is providing masks and air purifiers to guests. Ride-hailing and delivery platform Grab said it has been distributing masks and issuing advisories to its workers.
It is an issue that needs an ASEAN solution.
— Amir Hamzah Azizan
Official response and regional effects
Minister for Digital Development and Information Josephine Teo told CNBC's "Squawk Box Asia" on Thursday that the haze was not the best way to welcome international guests, as Singapore hosts Singapore International Cyber Week with a record turnout of more than 15,000 visitors from over 100 countries. Teo said preparations began weeks earlier, including distributing masks to those most in need, and that Singapore is in close contact with Indonesian officials and ready to assist.
The haze has also affected neighboring Malaysia. Second Finance Minister Amir Hamzah Azizan told CNBC on Wednesday that the worsening situation requires a coordinated response across Southeast Asia, and Malaysia has offered to deploy water bombers and other resources. He said, "It is an issue that needs an ASEAN solution."
