Singapore – In response to the updates of Singapore’s border measures, such as resuming travel from Southeast Asian countries, members of the public expressed their concerns on the matter.
The Ministry of Health (MOH) announced on Saturday (Oct 23) that travellers from six countries will be allowed entry into Singapore.
In its update, MOH said that beginning Nov 1, necessary workers and students will be allowed to enter Singapore’s borders in a safe and calibrated manner, on the condition they are fully vaccinated before arrival, said MOH.
“As part of this move, we will facilitate the entry of more domestic workers, to meet urgent domestic and caregiving needs of local households, while regulating the numbers carefully as the global situation evolves.”
After reviewing the Covid-19 situation in Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, MOH has revised the travel restrictions on the countries.
“All travellers (excluding short term visitors) with a 14-day travel history to Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka prior to departure to Singapore will be allowed to enter Singapore from Oct 26,” said MOH.
These travellers will be subject to Category IV border measures, involving a 10-day stay-home notice period at a dedicated facility.
All travellers would be allowed to transit through Singapore, added MOH.
Members from the online community have openly expressed concern about the updated measures.
“More worried about our healthcare workers and system,” commented Facebook user Vam Richie.
“Last year, people from a particular country would gate crash our hospitals immediately after leaving our custom. Since our medical system is already under tremendous stress, what is our MTF (multi-ministry task force for Covid-19) going to do to prevent this?” asked another netizen.
Others wondered why borders were loosening while restrictions continued for the community.
“Open to all, but restrictions for locals. Uniquely Singapore,” commented Facebook user Ong Qizong.
“Lol. Restrict locals. Give freedom to tourist,” added a netizen.
“Please don’t be complacent by opening up our borders and use it as a reason to say that it is for the benefit of the economy. This isn’t a game of cards,” said Facebook user Andrew Tham.
Meanwhile, businessman and former Nominated Member of Parliament Calvin Cheng also commented, noting it was “great news.”
One Pey En Alice Lim highlighted no objections to opening the borders but requested a safe approach.
“Please at least put in the proper safe management measures including strict quarantine, Covid-19 screening requirements in place for now till the current situation has improved; our healthcare system is able to absorb the impact of the current surge.” /TISG