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SINGAPORE: Singapore said Monday that it will consider relaxing travel restrictions for people who have been vaccinated against Covid-19, including those planning to visit the city-state for the World Economic Forum (WEF) in May.
The Southeast Asia business and tourism hub has largely banned leisure travel due to the pandemic and has limited commercial and official travel agreements with certain countries.
Most returning residents have to isolate themselves in designated hotels or in their homes for up to two weeks.
“If there is clear evidence that transmission risks can be significantly reduced (with vaccines), we will certainly consider some relaxation of the SHN (stay-at-home notice) regimen for vaccinated travelers,” said the co-chair of the working group of government virus, Lawrence Wong, said in parliament.
The wealthy island nation, which has largely eradicated the disease locally, last week became one of the first countries in Asia to embark on a national vaccination program.
Government studies show that nearly 60% of people are willing to get vaccinated, the Health Ministry said on Monday.
But some have expressed doubts because of the low risk of infection in Singapore and concerns about possible side effects from rapidly developed vaccines.
Wong said the restrictions could also be revised for travelers vaccinated for the WEF, which typically attracts thousands of politicians, businessmen and celebrities from around the world.
The annual meeting has moved from its usual home in Davos, Switzerland, due to virus fears in Europe.
