Haze Inter-Ministerial Committee to be formed

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced on Thursday there will be a Haze Inter-Ministerial Committee, led by Minister Ng Eng Hen, to tackle the haze problem.

The Ministerial Committee will focus on "protecting public heath and safety, working with the Indonesians to mitigate the haze at source and maintaining economic and social resilience".

It will also review guidelines for protecting vulnerable groups, ensure that society and businesses, especially essential services, continue to operate. Clear guidelines on the protective measures at each PSI threshold will be issued by the committee.

"I ask Singaporeans to remain calm and look out for one another," said PM Lee. "Watch out for your neighbours, especially older Singaporeans and young kids. If any of them have respiratory problems, bring them to a clinic immediately.

"Contact your RCs and MPs if you have any questions. I am confident we can manage this problem, and get through if we stay united and work together."

The Prime Minister added he will write to the Indonesian president to register Singapore's serious concerns and repeat the Republic's offers to help.

He also promised to take action against any Singapore companies or companies in Singapore responsible for causing the fires in Sumatra.