Problems that the million-dollar ministers are not solving

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Forum: Time to toughen anti-smoking strategy​

Sep 10, 2025

Despite Singapore’s tough stance on smoking, the reality on the ground tells a different story. People continue to smoke in areas clearly marked as non-smoking zones such as in public parks. Discarded cigarette butts litter our streets, void decks and drains.

We need to go beyond current smoking restrictions. Smoking “corners” in coffee shops are not enclosed, so second-hand smoke drifts freely with the wind, affecting every diner. It is a similar situation at bus stops, making restrictions meaningless.

Regulations prohibit smoking within 5m of entrances and exits to buildings. Yet, non-smokers still find themselves walking through clouds of smoke in their daily routine. At home, many have little protection when second-hand smoke drifts into their flats from neighbouring units.


Campaigns have fallen short, and the status quo is not tenable. Singapore needs to relook its anti-smoking strategy. This is not just a health issue. It is also about fairness. A smoker’s personal enjoyment cannot come at the expense of others’ right to clean air.

Jeff Wee