In a broadcast by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Mon, 14 Dec, he announced that Singapore will be entering Phase 3 on 28 Dec. So what does this entail?
Groups of up to 8 allowed to congregate
As mentioned previously, the current maximum of 5 people will be increased to 8. There will also be easing of capacity limits in public places such as shopping centres and places of worship. This would make it easier for families and loved ones to gather during the festive period.
Nonetheless, PM Lee reminded everyone to “not abandon your mindset of watchfulness and caution” as the COVID-19 virus has not been eradicated. Thus, it is still not advised to let one’s guard down and have large parties.
Updates on the vaccine
The Health Sciences Authority has approved the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, with the first shipment arriving by the end of December and with sufficient vaccines for everyone in Singapore by the third quarter of 2021.
PM Lee announced that the vaccine will be made free for all Singaporeans and long-term residents, with priority given to healthcare workers, frontline personnel as well as the elderly and vulnerable. All who are above the age of 16 years are encouraged to be vaccinated, with exception of pregnant women, as doing so will help to protect ourselves and our loved ones by making it harder for the virus to spread.
Besides supporting physical recovery, PM Lee added that the vaccines will also support our society as Singapore will play a crucial role as a global aviation hub in transporting the vaccines around the world.
Lastly, PM Lee emphasised the need to keep up our efforts in “this final stretch” to defeat COVID-19 in order to resume more normality in our lives.
Images: Prime Minister Lee’s live address via Facebook, Envato
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