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SINGAPORE: The nightlife industry is not expected to resume operations even after Singapore enters Phase 3 of its reopening as it is a sector with a higher risk environment.
This was said by Education Minister Lawrence Wong, co-chair of the multi-ministerial working group on COVID-19, on Tuesday (October 20), adding that the industry must be prepared for “a fairly long period of restrictions.”
He noted that the nightlife industry comprises bars, clubs, karaoke lounges, and nightclubs.
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“We know that these are higher risk environments. The nature of the activities themselves, of such activities, means that there are people who socialize in close contact, often in a small enclosed space and the risk is much higher, “Wong said at a press conference of the multi-working group ministries.
“So even at the beginning of Phase 3, when we enter Phase 3, we do not expect to resume these activities anytime soon.”
However, the government will implement assistance measures during this period to help entrepreneurs and homeowners to leave, transit and relocate to new areas, he said, adding that more details of the measures will be announced separately.
Mr Wong added that authorities were prepared to consider pilots in some environments, with “much stricter” safe driving measures.
Additional measures include, but are not limited to, testing customers with a rapid test kit before they enter the facility, as well as current safe management measures, such as no loud music, no intermixing between groups of people, and physical distancing.
And to ensure that secure management measures are “fully enforced”, the Government can use closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras to monitor facilities.
He added that companies would have to consider whether it is “feasible” to proceed with all additional measures, as “a dance club may no longer sound like a dance club” with the regulations.
The government allowed food and beverage outlets to resume food services in June, after Singapore entered Phase 2 of its reopening. While nightlife venues are still closed, food and beverage outlets can serve spirits and allow liquor consumption on their premises until 10.30pm.
In response to a question about why cruise ships can resume activities, but not karaoke rooms, Mr. Wong said that the nature of the activity is “quite different.”
Singing and dancing in a room with loud music “is known to be higher risk” and is “more likely to be high-profile events,” he said.
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