Phase 2 of exit from circuit breaker may come earlier than expected

You may be able to meet your friends before the end of June, if Singapore makes the decision to move into Phase 2 of reopening earlier than previously announced.

In a virtual press conference held by the multi-ministry task force on Thursday (May 28), Minister of National Development Lawrence Wong said the government will decide in mid-June whether to start Phase 2 before the end of the month, should community transmission rates remain low and stable in Phase 1.

According to media reports, Minister Wong said that Phase 2 will see a wider range of activities resumed.

Almost the entire economy will restart operations by the start of the phase, including retail shops and consumer services.

Dining in at food and beverage outlets will also be allowed, subject to a maximum of five people per group. For households with more than five people, they will have to sit at different tables.

This rule will also apply to social interactions and family visits, which would be allowed in Phase 2 too.

The minister added that sports facilities and public venues, such as stadiums and swimming pools, are expected to reopen as well. But for activities that pose higher risks, like those with large gatherings or close contact in enclosed spaces – museums, libraries, cinemas, theatres, religious functions , bars clubs and parts – a more cautious approach will need to be taken.

“All of these venues, based on our experience and overseas experience, have been instances where there have been cases of transmissions in such settings, and so we want to take a more cautious approach for activities in these areas to resume,” he said.

Singapore will exit the circuit breaker and move into Phase 1 on Jun 2.