Singapore Malls Implement Measures Amid Haze Crisis

SINGAPORE – In light of deteriorating air quality due to transboundary haze, major retail landlords in Singapore are implementing precautionary measures to protect shoppers, tenants, and staff. Lendlease, Far East Organization, and CapitaLand Investment have announced steps such as keeping automated mall entrances shut and enhancing air filtration systems.

On October 16, hourly PM2.5 readings across Singapore reached the 'high' range, exceeding 150, while the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) remained in the 'very unhealthy' range above 200. The PSI, which measures air quality, categorizes readings from good (0-50) to hazardous (over 300), indicating serious health risks for the population.

“Lendlease takes precautionary measures guided by prevailing NEA advisories, including suspending outdoor facilities and activities.”Jenny Khoo, head of retail and workspace management at Lendlease

A spokesperson from CapitaLand Investment noted that management may reduce the inflow of outdoor air into malls like ION Orchard and Plaza Singapura by closing windows and automatic sliding doors. Additionally, outdoor facilities may be closed when air quality reaches unhealthy levels. Similar measures are being adopted by Far East Organization, which manages malls including Orchard Central and Clarke Quay Central. Deborah Tan, director for operations and marketing at Far East Organization, mentioned that tenants with exterior exits have been advised to keep their entrances closed.

Jenny Khoo emphasized the importance of staff well-being, stating that flexible work arrangements may be considered. Lendlease is also enhancing indoor air quality with bipolar ionization systems, which help eliminate pollutants and pathogens. Outdoor play areas at Lendlease malls, such as Jem, may close temporarily when PSI readings exceed 200.

“We are monitoring updates from the National Environment Agency closely and will adjust our safety approach as conditions develop.”Deborah Tan, director for operations and marketing at Far East Organization

In response to the haze, Singapore's Ministry of Health has initiated a Haze Subsidy Scheme to assist citizens facing health issues related to haze exposure. This program allows eligible individuals, including children and the elderly, to receive subsidies for medical consultations related to haze health concerns. The last time such a subsidy was implemented was in 2015, when PSI levels exceeded 300, leading to significant health impacts and economic losses.

“The Haze Subsidy Scheme aims to assist citizens facing health issues related to haze exposure.”Ministry of Health

The ongoing haze crisis has been attributed to forest fires in Indonesia, exacerbated by dry conditions and wind patterns. The National Environment Agency (NEA) has indicated that the risk of severe haze this year is heightened due to forecasted El Niño conditions, which are expected to bring drier weather to the region. As a result, the NEA has convened the Haze Task Force to monitor air quality and coordinate responses across various sectors.

In Indonesia, the haze crisis has significantly impacted air travel, particularly in Papua, where 16 airports have reported operational disruptions due to reduced visibility caused by smoke from forest fires. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation noted that these conditions have led to delays and cancellations of flights, emphasizing safety as the primary concern in operational decisions. As of October 15, over 2,000 domestic flights have been affected since August, with nearly half experiencing delays or cancellations, according to reports from Detik Finance.

Indonesian coverage of the haze crisis has stressed the environmental implications of forest fires and their impact on air travel, while Singaporean outlets have focused on retail safety measures and public health responses. This divergence reflects differing national interests, with Singapore prioritizing immediate actions to safeguard public health and retail operations, while Indonesia's media framed the situation as a broader environmental and infrastructural challenge.

Meanwhile, in Malaysia, the haze has also taken a toll, particularly in Johor, where several areas have reported unhealthy air quality. As of October 16, nine monitoring stations in Johor recorded air pollution index (API) readings above 150, with Pasir Gudang reaching a peak of 198, according to local reports. The Department of Environment's Air Pollutant Index indicated that 25 locations nationwide were experiencing air pollution levels above 100, highlighting the widespread impact of the haze crisis.

As the situation develops, retail landlords and health officials in Singapore are closely monitoring air quality updates from the NEA to adjust their safety measures accordingly. The public is advised to remain vigilant and limit outdoor activities, especially vulnerable individuals who may be more adversely affected by poor air quality.