Smokers in Singapore from all walks of life, who didn’t fully comprehend how their own health is the government’s business until today when the haze arrived, have come out to thank the National Environment Agency profusely.

This after smoking was banned at reservoirs and more than 400 parks islandwide from June 1, 2016, as part of measures to make Singapore smoke-free.

One smoker, Sio Hoon Kee, said: “Now that the parks and reservoirs are free from cigarette smoke, I can enjoy the fresh haze when I go for a walk with my family this evening after work.”

Other Singaporeans said they are heartened and can take many lessons from this fresh round of haze.

Mong Cha Cha, another local, said: “I like how the government can take small measures to control small outcomes but cannot take big measures to control big outcomes.”

“It’s almost like missing the forest for the trees because it is too hazy to see clearly.”

“Even when I am not smoking in the parks and reservoirs.”