Singapore to distribute more masks from 23 October, with eligibility lowered to age 60

The second round of mask distribution will extend eligibility to more seniors, while the Government works with retailers to replenish mask stocks amid the haze situation.

Eligible Singaporeans will be able to collect another two masks from community clubs (CCs) or mask vending machines from 23 October (Friday), as the Government begins its second round of mask distribution.

Grace Fu, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment said the distribution arrangements and eligibility criteria would remain the same, except for the age requirement for seniors, which has been lowered from 67 to 60.

The newly eligible group can collect one pack of two masks from community clubs (CCs) or haze mask vending machines. Those who were eligible during the first round but have yet to collect their masks can collect four masks at any People's Association (PA) CC.

This means Singaporeans aged 60 and above, including those from the Merdeka Generation (MG) and Pioneer Generation (PG), will be eligible to collect masks at community clubs or from vending machines.

Minister Fu said the change followed feedback from members of the public and would allow more Singaporeans to access masks. Although the haze situation has improved over the past few days, she noted that conditions could deteriorate again in the near future.

"The haze situation has improved over the last few days. However, the health of our people remains our top priority," she said, adding that Singapore must remain prepared.

Who is eligible to collect haze masks?

Eligible individuals can collect government-issued haze masks by presenting their NRICs at designated collection points.

The following groups can collect masks from vending machines or PA CCs:

• Pioneer Generation (PG) members
• Merdeka Generation (MG) members
• CHAS Orange card holders
• CHAS Blue card holders
• Medical Fee Exemption Card (MFEC) holders
• Recipients of ComCare Assistance
• Singaporeans aged 60 and above, eligible from 23 October 2026

Meanwhile, pregnant women, children aged seven to 16, and individuals with medical conditions, such as asthma, can collect masks at PA CCs using their NRICs.

Eligible Singaporeans may also ask a family member or friend to collect masks on their behalf using the eligible person's NRIC.

Government works with retailers to replenish mask stocks

Minister Fu also acknowledged that some retail stores had run out of masks and said the Government was working closely with the Ministry of Health to draw on the national stockpile to help replenish retailers' supplies.

She named Sheng Siong, Giant and Cold Storage as retailers receiving support to replenish their stocks. FairPrice Group, meanwhile, continued to have masks available on its shelves and through its online store.

Minister Fu said retailers would need time to replenish their shelves and urged the public not to panic.

Community urged to support vulnerable groups

Minister Fu also called on volunteers, neighbours, business owners, and colleagues to look out for people who may need help accessing masks.

This includes seniors who may be physically unable to collect masks themselves, as well as self-employed workers such as delivery riders.

She encouraged the community and businesses to do their part in supporting vulnerable groups as Singapore navigates the haze episode.

With a second round of distribution beginning on 23 October (Friday) and the eligibility age lowered to 60, the Government is seeking to make masks accessible to more seniors while encouraging the wider community to support those who may need assistance.

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Infographic / gov.sg