Here's brilliant news just in time to usher in a new year! Singapore will enter Phase 3 of its reopening on December 28, announced Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong in a speech addressing the nation at 5pm on Monday, December 14.
In the televised national address, PM Lee expressed his gratitude to Singaporeans who helped to keep the coronavirus under control. "We stayed united, kept up our guard, and did not allow ourselves to be complacent over time," PM Lee said during his speech.
It was previously announced that Singapore is unlikely to enter Phase 3 of its reopening by the end of this year – but that's set to change. Singapore exited the 'circuit breaker' on June 1 and moved into Phase Two of its reopening on June 19.
Groups of eight can gather
Some changes in Phase 3 include easing capacity limits in public places like malls, attractions, and places of worship. Groups of up to eight – an increase from the current five limit – will also be allowed to congregate for social gatherings. So eight people can dine out together, or visit someone's home.
Free vaccinations for all Singaporeans and long-term residents
Covid-19 vaccinations will also be free for all Singaporeans and long-term residents currently here, on a voluntary basis. The first shipment of vaccines is slated to arrive by the end of the month – and Singapore will be one of the first countries in the world to obtain it. The first vaccine, the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, has been approved by the Health Sciences Authority. If everything goes smoothly, there is said to be enough vaccines for everyone by the third quarter of next year.
"My Cabinet colleagues and I, including the older ones, will be getting ourselves vaccinated early. This is to show you, especially seniors like me, that we believe the vaccines are safe," says PM Lee.
Existing measures still stand
However, existing measures will still stand. Masks will still have to be worn at all times – except when you're eating, drinking or doing vigorous exercises – and you will still have to scan in using TraceTogether when entering public places such as malls, supermarkets, restaurants, bars, and parks.
"This is absolutely not the time to relax and let our guard down, or to hold a big party imagining the problem has disappeared," PM Lee says.
We know everyone's excited to finally be able to hang out with a larger group of friends without leaving anybody out. But let's remain responsible while practising social distancing. Here's hoping 2021 will be a better year for all of us.
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