Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said on Thursday, October 16, 2026, that his government is investigating companies potentially responsible for the forest and peatland fires in Indonesia that have blanketed the city-state in unhealthy haze for weeks.
Wong warned that authorities could take legal action under Singapore's Transboundary Haze Pollution Act and are exploring joint action with other countries, according to CNBC.
Haze Chokes Singapore as Air Quality Hits Unhealthy Levels
Air quality in Singapore remained unhealthy on Thursday, as smoke from widespread fires in Indonesia's Kalimantan region continued to drift toward the city-state, according to the National Environment Agency.
Singapore's air quality first deteriorated to unhealthy levels on September 4, the first time in nearly three years, according to government data.
The Pollutant Standards Index hit a season high of 212 in the western part of the island at noon on October 15, The Straits Times reported.
Businesses Take the Hit
The prolonged haze is disrupting daily life and threatening businesses. Seletar Airport has recorded 16 flight diversions due to low visibility, spokespeople for Changi Airport Group and the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore told CNBC in a joint reply.
Outdoor dining establishments, including restaurants and hawker centers, are reporting a drop in business, according to local media.
A Marina Bay Sands spokesperson said certain outdoor experiences involving prolonged exposure have been temporarily suspended, and the hotel is handing out masks and air purifiers to guests.
Government Rolls Out Protective Measures
Singapore's Minister for Digital Development and Information Josephine Teo told CNBC's Squawk Box Asia that the haze was not the best way to welcome international guests, as the city-state hosts Singapore International Cyber Week with a record turnout of more than 15,000 visitors from over 100 countries.
Teo said the government began preparations weeks earlier, including distributing masks to those most in need. Singapore has been in close contact with Indonesian officials to understand their needs and stands ready to provide assistance, she added.
Grab, the ride-hailing and delivery platform, said it has been distributing masks and issued advisories to its platform workers.
Malaysia Pushes for an ASEAN Solution
The haze has extended beyond Singapore, affecting neighboring Malaysia as well.
Malaysia's Second Finance Minister Amir Hamzah Azizan told CNBC on Wednesday that the worsening haze requires a coordinated response across Southeast Asia, saying the country has offered to deploy water bombers and other resources to help tackle the problem.
It is an issue that needs an ASEAN solution, he said.
Wong Vows to Protect Singaporeans
Wong said support will be available to those who need it, according to The Business Times.
The worsening haze is affecting all of us, so please take care of yourself and those around you, Wong said, according to The Straits Times.
We will do everything we can to protect Singaporeans, while working with our neighbours to address the underlying causes of the haze, Wong said.
Bloomberg reported that Wong vowed to identify companies that may be responsible for the fires shrouding the city-state, warning that those found culpable could face legal action.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the haze in Singapore?
Smoke from widespread forest and peatland fires in Indonesia's Kalimantan region is drifting into Singapore, pushing air pollution to unhealthy levels, according to the National Environment Agency.
What legal action can Singapore take?
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said authorities could take legal action under Singapore's Transboundary Haze Pollution Act against companies found responsible for the fires, and are exploring joint action with other countries.
When did Singapore's air quality first turn unhealthy?
Singapore's air quality first deteriorated to unhealthy levels on September 4, 2026, the first time in nearly three years, according to government data.