Singapore extends circuit breaker to June 1

The government has decided to extend the circuit breaker for four more weeks till June 1, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced today (April 21).

This is to keep everyone in Singapore safe, he said, after consulting with the multi-ministry task force (MTF) and assessing that "we will not be able to achieve our intended objectives by ending the circuit breaker on May 4."

The MTF's two objectives are to ensure that transmission in the migrant worker dormitories is under control and that it does not spread further to the community.

Current breaker measures will also be tightened further. 

He asked Singaporeans to stay at home and only go out for essential needs such as buying food or necessities. Only one person from each household should be out at a time, and wear a mask while doing so.

Access to hotspots such as wet markets will be tightened to ensure sufficient safe distancing.

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The authorities will also close more workplace premises to minimise contact among the workers. Only shops, supermarkets, factories and others which are providing the most essential services will remain open. 

"The government understands the impact of these decisions on businesses and workers. Thus, the support measures announced earlier will be extended," he said.

PM Lee stressed the need for Singaporeans to continue to work with the government, especially the elderly who are more vulnerable to the coronavirus.

"Some say if they fall sick, it is their problem. However, if you are sick and pass the virus to others, it becomes everyone's problem." 

He urged everyone to not take the coronavirus lightly and take preventive measures seriously.

"Let us all be socially responsible and protect ourselves to keep others safe."

For the latest updates on the coronavirus, visit here.

lamminlee@asiaone.com