Singapore will add another four weeks in its circuit breaker program to combat COVID-19 transmission. Accordingly, the extension will last until June 1, while previously it should have ended by May 4.
Singapore’s PM Lee Hsien Loong explained that the attempt is to decisively reduce the number of cases existing in the country. Also, it will act as a prevention and responsive measure should there exist leakage from foreign worker dormitories.
“To achieve these two objectives, we must all hunker down and press on with our tight circuit breaker measures,” the Prime Minister stated.
The decision to prolong the circuit breaker is to mitigate another possible big wave of coronavirus outbreak. Additionally, the current social distancing program is hard to implement as numerous people still gather at hotspots, such as wet markets.
Regarding the further extension of the program, Singapore will also employ tighter rules. The government apologizes for the extension, but they also hope that the citizens will understand.
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What’s New in the Extension of Singapore Circuit Breaker
Tighter rules will come alongside the implementation of the extension. The government decided to extend the program and tighten rules as they claimed to see improvement following the previous implementation.
While previously the country has limited public activities at schools and offices, Singapore will disallow several other public activities from happening. For instance, snacking business such as hawker centers and snack and beverages shops must not operate.
Business, with exceptions, will also receive no permission to conduct on-site operations. Foreign workers, furthermore, will not be permitted to go to work.
People who go out must wear a face mask as it is mandatory. However, people who go out to exercise do not have to wear one, but they are not allowed to exercise in groups or pairs.
The government will prepare a series of support measures for business and workers. The Jobs Support Scheme (JSS) will extend by 75% and be in effect for another month.
Also Read: A Fine unless the Singaporeans Wear a Mask
