Singapore collecting data on haze, will ‘keep its options open’ on taking legal action: Grace Fu

Singapore is gathering data on the ongoing haze situation and planning to consider legal action under its Transboundary Haze Pollution Act, according to Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu on October 14. Fu stated that the data collection is ongoing and will be thoroughly reviewed before any decisions are made.

The Minister expressed hope that Indonesian authorities would be able to contain the fires, noting that the El Nino weather phenomenon has made the situation particularly challenging. She mentioned that the country had faced several episodes of unhealthy air quality since September 4, with air quality dipping into the unhealthy range on September 4.

Fu added that the weather conditions have been very dry, and they wish the Indonesian side well while remaining ready to assist should the need arise. The Singapore Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) reached levels of 203 during the recent haze episode, marking the first time it has fallen into the "very unhealthy" range. Fu also indicated that discussions on the issue would take place at the regional level, including with Asean counterparts.