Shawn Tan
Remember the SingapoRediscovers campaign launched last month? In a ministerial statement released by Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat on 17 Aug, over S$320 million in tourism credits will be made available for local spending. Granted as SingapoRediscovers vouchers, the initiative is part of the overarching campaign to boost domestic tourism. As the economy continues to reel from the effects of COVID-19, these vouchers will serve to encourage domestic spending. In doing so, the fallout from the loss of tourism dollars will hopefully be mitigated.
How do these SingapoRediscovers vouchers work? While full details and mechanics are yet to be released, the vouchers will basically provide Singaporeans with tourism credits that can be collected and spent on selected attractions. Previously popular attractions like the Zoo and Gardens by the Bay have seen a fall in visitorship. So these vouchers are coming at a good time. Attractions that include “culture and heritage, nature, art, and architecture” will also be boosted. Now, you have added incentive to start exploring our little red dot again!
A jab in the arm for local businesses
Besides targeting the tourism sector, local businesses are also looking to benefit from the SingapoRediscovers vouchers. It is hoped that credits will trickle down to business owners of food and beverage establishments and retail shops on top of hotels and attractions. While Phase 2 has seen more people dining out, many restaurants and cafes are still struggling to hit pre-pandemic traffic figures.
Also read: How Singapore Is Eliminating COVID-19 and What Other Countries Can Learn From Them
With the launch of the SingapoRediscovers vouchers, it presents a win-win situation for both companies and consumers alike. Your favourite attractions get to operate at full tilt. For you and I, we can take the chance to explore Singapore at a discounted rate. Stay tuned for more details by the Ministry of Trade and Industry in the coming months.
