A second distribution of haze masks in Singapore will commence on October 23, expanding eligibility to include residents aged 60 and above, as announced by Grace Fu, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment, on October 22. This follows an initial round of distribution that began on October 14 after particulate matter (PM2.5) levels surged to a season-high of 288.

In the upcoming exercise, each eligible individual will be able to collect two masks from various community clubs (CCs), mask vending machines, and additional designated locations. Previously, free masks were limited to those aged 67 and older, along with specific groups such as the Merdeka Generation, Pioneer Generation cardholders, and individuals holding healthcare concession cards.

The expanded list of eligible recipients now includes seniors aged 60 and above, Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) Orange and Blue cardholders, Medical Fee Exemption Card holders, ComCare Assistance recipients, pregnant women, children aged seven to 16, and people with medical conditions such as asthma. Masks for expectant mothers, children, and those with medical conditions will only be available at PA CCs and similar venues, while other eligible groups can also access masks via vending machines located at 37 public transport hubs and social service offices. A full list of collection points is accessible at go.gov.sg/hazemask.

Minister Fu explained that the decision to lower the eligibility age followed feedback from seniors not covered in the initial round, noting that those above 60 who are neither Merdeka Generation nor Pioneer Generation cardholders would benefit from the masks.

So far, approximately 22% of eligible individuals have collected masks. Those who qualified during the first distribution but did not collect their masks can receive up to four masks at CCs.

The distribution occurs amid fluctuating air quality conditions. While Singapore has recently experienced improvements in haze levels thanks to prevailing winds, satellite data from the National Environment Agency (NEA) indicates continued hotspots in Indonesia, with heavier pollution noted over parts of Peninsular Malaysia, Kalimantan, Sumatra, and western Sarawak.

Minister Fu urged residents to collect masks in advance of potential haze episodes, emphasizing the importance of preparedness. She also reminded the public that vulnerable populations should wear N95 or equivalent masks (such as KF94, FFP2, or KN95) when air quality reaches very unhealthy levels, especially if outdoors for extended periods.

The government has taken steps to address the root causes of the haze, issuing legal notices to 10 companies in Indonesia demanding they cease land burning and submit plans to prevent future fires. However, officials have yet to provide updates on compliance or responses from these firms.

The haze outbreak earlier in October triggered a surge in demand for certified masks, leading some retailers—including Sheng Siong, Giant, and Cold Storage—to impose purchase limits. Ministries involved are working to replenish supplies from the national stockpile to ease shortages. Minister Fu reassured the public that mask availability remains sufficient and encouraged calm.

At an event distributing haze-relief items at Beo Crescent Market on October 22, MP Wan Rizal and Minister Fu handed out masks, herbal syrup, and coconut water to local stallholders. Among those present was 72-year-old Benjamin Pakiam, who expressed support for the expanded eligibility but suggested the age threshold be lowered further to include those in their 50s, citing their vulnerability to haze-related health effects.