Pilots for reopening of nightclubs and karaoke outlets in Singapore postponed indefinitely

Pilots for the reopening of nightclubs and karaoke outlets intended to begin this month have been deferred indefinitely, the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said in a joint press statement on Tuesday (Jan 19).

This comes after an increase in the number of community COVID-19 cases in Singapore. Four cases in the community, among a total of 30 new cases, were reported on Tuesday. 

Two nightclubs and 10 karaoke outlets were shortlisted to reopen as part of the pilot, which was supposed to kick off this month subject to the prevailing COVID-19 situation and lead time required to prepare for it. 

“We have seen an increase in the number of community cases in Singapore recently, of which some cases are currently unlinked and under investigation,” the statement said.

“To prevent the risk of further community transmission and formation of clusters in high-risk settings such as nightclubs and karaoke outlets, which entail people coming into close contact for prolonged periods of time and in enclosed spaces, the pilots have been deferred until further notice.” 

While it is uncertain when the pilot can commence due to the public health situation, the relevant agencies will review the commencement at a “suitable juncture”, said the ministries.  

The pilot for bars and pubs, which lasts for two months, commenced on Dec 8, 2020 and will be allowed to go on for now. Three outlets are currently involved in it.