Sound Smarter in Sixty Seconds (SSISS) is a new column by Mothership where we brief you on the important headlines of the day. We will also contribute our views on the issues at hand.

Singapore is likely to experience haze earlier and for a longer period

Environment and Water Resources Minister Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan shared on his Facebook status that hot spots in Sumatra increased to 458. He said that the "Haze may worsen when the winds weaken next week. Some rain expected, but not enough to douse the fires."

Not one to mince words, he added that " we all know the welfare of close neighbours is not their priority. Hard truths of regional politics."

Historically, politics has done little to stop the haze. Last year, Indonesia President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono apologised to Malaysia and Singapore for the haze caused by fires in Sumatra.

When PSI levels hit as high 401 last year, Singaporeans learnt how to respond, react and adapt with their own common sense. This time we are more experienced and will be more well prepared. Stock up your N95 masks!

The Maritime and Port Authority step up measures to reduce collisions in Singapore waters

There were three vessel collisions in Singapore waters over the past two weeks. As a response, the MPA will conduct briefings to the shipping community, disseminate circulars to shipping and harbour craft communities about the importance of navigational safety, and MPA's port operations control centre will broadcast safety messages.

Our shipping and port business has always been an out-of-sight-out-of-mind issue with Singaporeans. Never mind that it accounts for much of Singapore's survival and success. Perhaps a good way for Singaporeans to get acquainted with our maritime endeavours is to read this piece on Singapore getting itself on the Arctic Council.

Top photo from Under the Angsana Tree.

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