Ong Ye Kung announces scheme offering subsidies for haze-related health conditions to begin Oct 12
Singapore Launches Haze Subsidy Scheme on October 12, Capping Costs for Vulnerable Groups
Source: The Straits Times YouTube · October 11, 2026 at 7:32 AM · AI-assisted report
Single-sourceSINGAPORE, 11 OCTOBER 2026 —
Singapore Launches Haze Subsidy Scheme on October 12, Capping Costs for Vulnerable Groups
Singapore will introduce the Public Health Preparedness Clinic (PHPC) Scheme on October 12, offering subsidised medical care for haze-related conditions at polyclinics and GP clinics, with targeted relief for children, the elderly, and low-income households.
The move follows persistent haze pollution across Southeast Asia, disproportionately affecting respiratory health. Under the scheme, eligible groups will face significantly reduced out-of-pocket expenses for haze-related treatments, with some categories receiving full subsidies.
From October 12, children aged 18 and below, seniors aged 65 and above, and individuals holding Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) cards or Medical Fee Exemption Cards will pay no more than S$10 for haze-related consultations at polyclinics and PHPCs. Pioneer Generation and Merdeka Generation seniors will see their costs capped at S$5, while those on the Public Assistance scheme will receive fully subsidised care under the Haze Subsidy Scheme (HSS).
Ong Ye Kung, Singapore’s Second Minister for Finance and Minister for Sustainability and the Environment, announced the scheme, emphasising its role in mitigating the health impacts of transboundary haze.
The scheme expands on existing public health measures, including the PHPC network established to manage infectious diseases and other health emergencies. Haze-related conditions, such as respiratory infections and asthma exacerbations, have surged during recent transboundary haze episodes, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations. The government has previously allocated funds to support haze mitigation efforts, including public awareness campaigns and air purification measures.
Singapore’s decision comes amid ongoing regional haze concerns, with Indonesia’s peatland fires and agricultural burning contributing to poor air quality across the ASEAN region. Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand have also implemented haze action plans, including public health subsidies and emergency response protocols. The new scheme aligns with Singapore’s broader sustainability goals, particularly its commitment to reducing transboundary haze through cross-border cooperation.
The Haze Subsidy Scheme will be operational from October 12, with affected individuals advised to consult their healthcare providers for eligibility and claim procedures. The Ministry of Health will provide further guidance on implementation details, including participating clinics and documentation requirements.
Related: Ong Ye Kung · Singapore
Malaysia Impact
3/10Malaysia may see indirect pressure on healthcare costs for haze-affected vulnerable groups, particularly children and the elderly, as Singapore’s subsidy scheme could influence regional policy coordination and public health responses. Transboundary haze remains a shared challenge, potentially affecting Malaysia’s air quality and healthcare expenditures during peak haze seasons.
policy