Singapore to roll out haze subsidy schemes as smog lingers, minister says
Singapore’s Health Minister Ong Ye Kung on Sunday announced two new subsidy schemes to ease the financial burden on residents affected by prolonged haze, as air quality remains a concern.
Source: The Straits Times YouTube · October 11, 2026 at 7:01 AM · AI-assisted report
Single-sourceSINGAPORE, BUKIT CANBERRA, 11 OCTOBER 2026 —
Singapore’s Health Minister Ong Ye Kung on Sunday announced two new subsidy schemes to ease the financial burden on residents affected by prolonged haze, as air quality remains a concern.
The move underscores the government’s direct response to public health risks posed by the haze, with targeted relief for vulnerable groups amid rising medical costs for haze-related illnesses. The schemes will be implemented immediately, offering immediate relief to those most affected.
Minister Ong Ye Kung made the announcement at Bukit Canberra’s annual Health Fiesta on October 11. Under the Haze Subsidy Scheme (HSS), children aged 18 and below, the elderly aged 65 and above, and individuals holding Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) cards or Medical Fee Exemption Cards will pay no more than SGD 10 for haze-related medical consultations at polyclinics and Public Health Preparedness Clinics (PHPCs).
For Pioneer Generation and Merdeka Generation seniors, out-of-pocket expenses will be capped at SGD 5. Meanwhile, those on the Public Assistance scheme will receive fully subsidised care under the HSS, meaning they will not incur any costs for haze-related treatments.
The introduction of the PHPC scheme complements the HSS by expanding access to healthcare services specifically tailored for haze-related conditions. The government’s decision follows sustained haze conditions, which have raised concerns over respiratory and eye health among Singaporeans.
The schemes reflect Singapore’s commitment to protecting its most vulnerable populations during environmental health crises. For Malaysia, where transboundary haze remains a recurring issue, the move serves as a reminder of the regional health and economic impact of forest fires, particularly in Sumatra and Borneo. The Malaysian government has previously activated emergency response measures, including haze task forces and increased monitoring, when air quality deteriorates.
The new subsidies will take effect immediately, providing relief to affected residents without delay. No further details on additional measures or extensions were provided in the announcement.
Related: Ong Ye Kung
Malaysia Impact
3/10Singapore’s haze subsidies highlight Malaysia’s recurring transboundary haze issue, which may prompt renewed scrutiny of cross-border forest fire management and potential economic/health costs, particularly in Sabah/Sarawak.
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