With immediate effect, all individuals should limit their overall number of social interactions to not more than two per day. Some examples of social interactions include visiting other households, or meeting with friends or family members in a public place.
The Multi-Ministry Taskforce (MTF) made the announcement on 30 April 2021.
Meanwhile, from 1 to 14 May 2021, malls and large standalone stores will have their occupancy limit reduced to one person per 10 sqm of Gross Floor Area (GFA), from one person per 8 sqm of GFA.
The odd and even date entry restrictions on Sundays will be reinstated for Lucky Plaza and Peninsula Plaza, and all outdoor barbecue pits and campsites will be closed to the public on these dates as well.
With effect from 7 May 2021 through to 14 May 2021, all attractions that have received the Ministry of Trade and Industry’s prior approval will be permitted to operate at 50 per cent operating capacity, a reduction from the previous 65 per cent.
MTF Co-Chair Minister Lawrence Wong said he understands that these new restrictions will create an inconvenience for many, particularly since there are three upcoming public holidays, including May Day that falls on 1 May 2021.
He said: “I know many are looking forward to these public holidays, you will have plans made, you may want to gather together and socialise or meet your friends and family ... but I seek everyone’s cooperation to scale back your social activities and comply with all the prevailing rules.”
These measures come after a recent spate of COVID-19 infections in Singapore. On 29 April 2021, there was a total of 35 new infections in Singapore, with 16 locally transmitted cases – the highest number of local transmission cases since 11 July 2020.
As of 12pm on 30 April 2021, there were a total of 24 new cases, with nine locally transmitted cases in the community.
Employers should allow employees to continue working from home if they are able to do so, urged the taskforce.
For employees who need to return to the workplace, employers should continue to stagger employees’ working hours, and implement flexible working arrangements. Social gatherings at the workplace should also be avoided.
The Taskforce added that public agencies in the Novena area such as the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore will be asking their staff to work from home where possible, given their proximity to the Tan Tock Seng Hospital cluster.
