Covid measures highlighted in Minister Wong’s speech

The speech was given as part of Wong’s opening remarks for the Multi-Ministry Task force Press Conference.

Minister Lawrence Wong focused on Covid measures in his opening remarks at the Multi-Ministry Task Force Press conference last September 24, 2021.

These measures will take effect from September 27 to October 24, 2021.

Group sizes for social gatherings will continue to be reduced to two persons, down from the initial size of five persons. This will also have the same implications for house visits.

Work-from-default will also be the default for offices moving forward. Up to half of the workforce will be allowed to work. Those going back to work will be required to do a self-test using the ART kits. 

Home-Based learning, meanwhile, will be implemented for children. This was based on the Ministry of Education’s earlier announcement, with an extension implemented until October 7. This will apply for students aged 12 years and below. 

Meanwhile, Wong also specified on the effects these restrictions will have on business owners.

“We recognise that businesses will be impacted by these restrictions. They are not the same as the Heightened Alert restrictions because businesses can still open, but with the reduction of group sizes, there will be an impact on F&B, retail and other businesses that are dependent on footfall. The Government will provide a support package to assist the affected businesses.”

The Job Support Scheme will be enhanced by 25% for September 27 to October 24, 2021. 

Rental support will also be provided for two weeks. Specific tenants will also be given 

“...tenants who are occupying Government-owned properties will enjoy a rental waiver of two weeks. For those qualifying occupiers in private commercial properties, whether you are tenant-occupier or owner-occupier, the Government will provide a two-week rental relief cash payout, under the Rental Support Scheme. And the cooked food and market stallholders in centres managed by the NEA or NEA-appointed operators will likewise receive a two-week rental waiver.”

The Covid-19 Driver Relief Fund, meanwhile, will be expanded to support taxi and private hire car drivers as well.