Singapore to Move to Phase 2 of Its Reopening

Image credit: Swapnil Bapat

On 9 June (Friday), Singapore will move to phase two of its reopening after the circuit break period. More businesses and social activities can resume during phase two, according to the Multi-Ministry Taskforce.

This measure came as Singapore observed that the number of community cases has remained stable even though it exited the circuit breaker on 1 June. In addition to that, the number of Covid-19 cases in foreign worker dormitories has also declined, and there are no new large clusters emerging.

What will resume in Singapore’s phase 2?

• Small-group social gatherings of up to five people can resume. Households can receive up to five visitors at any one time. 
• Food and beverages (F&B) outlets can resume dine-in services. However, there must not be more than 5 diners per table. Also, liquor sales and consumption must stop at 10.30pm. 
• Retail businesses may reopen their physical outlets.
• Larger public venues with high human traffic such as malls and large standalone retail outlets will be subject to capacity limits. Also, operators will have to prevent crowds or long queues from building up within and in the immediate vicinity of their premises. 
• Personal health and wellness, aesthetic, and home-based services can resume.
• Tuition and other private enrichment classes can resume, with the exception of singing or voice training classes.
• Playgrounds, beaches, lawns and fields, stadia, swimming complexes, sports halls, hard courts, gyms, fitness studios, bowling centres and function rooms will open. This also applies to similar facilities in private settings such as condominiums and clubs.
• Face-to-face visits at elderly residential facilities, including nursing and welfare homes can resume
• All other healthcare services, including eldercare services in the community, individual health screenings will resume. 
• All healthcare services and services for seniors, including traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), aesthetic services, eldercare services and senior activity centres, will gradually open.
• From June 29, schools will also fully reopen, with students from all levels returning to school daily.

For a complete list of businesses that are allowed to operate, visit the Ministry of Trade and Industry’s website. Those on the list are not required to apply for an exemption before resuming operations.

Also read: Travel Forecast: Safest Countries in Europe and Oceania to Travel to Post COVID-19

Safe distancing measures 

• Individuals are still to keep a safe distance of 1m from others.
• Telecommuting must remain the default for all businesses where feasible.
• For workplaces that have resumed operations, current safe management measures will continue to apply. Individuals must wear wear masks at all times; when outside and at workplaces. There must not be social gatherings between employees. Safe distancing of at least 1m must be upheld at all times.

With Singapore entering phase 2 soon, make sure to take the necessary precautions to stay safe and keep a distance of at least 1 metre from others, even in open spaces.