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SINGAPORE: A 28-day “circuit breaker” may not be enough if Singaporeans continue to ignore measures put in place to stop the spread of COVID-19, Minister of Environment and Water Resources Masagos Zulkifli said Thursday (Oct. 16). April).
He warned against complacency as the number of COVID-19 cases continues to grow, saying 150 people will be fined for violating safe distancing measures on Thursday, the 10th of the circuit breaker period. Another 50 people were trapped in public spaces without masks.
“We are still finding people eating in the hawker centers even though dinner is not allowed, crowds return to some popular markets and others prowl and gather in groups in parks and public spaces,” Masagos said in a Facebook post. .
“We all know that if we don’t do our part to strictly observe the circuit breaker, the 28 days may not be enough to break the chain of transmission, right?”
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Safe distance at a cafe in Yishun. (Photo: Facebook / Masagos Zulkifli)
Masagos said he was “glad to know that most” of the people wore masks when they were outside their homes, and that “only about 50 people” were found without masks in public spaces on Thursday.
“Looking around at the photographs that compliance officers have been sending me, I am quite satisfied and of course we can do better,” the minister said in an interview on News 5.
On Tuesday, the wearing of outdoor masks became mandatory for everyone in Singapore with certain exemptions.
READ: What the law says about having to wear a mask when you are away from home
Masagos said that in addition to people who do strenuous exercise like running, or children under the age of two, everyone should wear a mask when they leave their home, but exceptions can be made for people with special needs.
“It is important to remind us that safe distancing measures are to protect ourselves and those around us,” he said in the television interview.
He added that the most important thing to remember is to stay home as much as possible.
The minister acknowledged that the battle against COVID-19 has been “difficult for everyone” and that “difficult but essential decisions have had to be made”.
“But we must do whatever it takes to keep Singaporeans and Singapore safe,” Masagos said. “Each lapse weakens our collective defense against the virus.”
“When things seem to be getting better … we shouldn’t let our guard down. Our determination to complete the circuit breaker seriously, to the end, is critical.”
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He also paid tribute to the safely distancing ambassadors and public officials, whom he praised for working hard in the front and behind the scenes.
“Despite the many challenges, I am proud that they have remained dedicated and firm,” Masagos said.
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