Singapore authorities remind nightlife operators of safe distancing at 'farewell' parties

SINGAPORE authorities are aware of plans by several nightlife operators to throw "farewell" parties on Wednesday, and will be deploying enforcement operations over the next two days.

News of these events came after the government announced that all entertainment venues in the city-state will have to close from 11.59pm on March 26 until April 30 as part of efforts to reduce the risk of seeding new local coronavirus clusters.

The Republic reported more than 550 coronavirus cases as at March 25.

A joint statement by the Singapore Police Force (SPF), Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and Enterprise Singapore (ESG) issued on Wednesday said these "farewell" events could result in large numbers of people congregating.

"These events undermine the campaign against Covid-19 and increases the risk to public health," the joint statement noted.

"If you are planning to attend, we urge you to seriously reconsider, if not for your own health, then for the health of those around you."

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STB, ESG and SPF also reminded nightlife operators to strictly implement the safe distancing measures announced by the Ministry of Health on March 20.

These measures include ensuring a distance of at least one metre between event participants, reducing mingling and suspending all events with over 250 participants.

The statement added that officers from government agencies, including the police, will monitor the situation and carry out enforcement action over the next two days.

Traffic police officers would also be conducting island-wide enforcement operations against drink-driving over the same period.

"These safe distancing measures are enforceable... we will not hesitate to take action against anyone who fails to comply," the statement said.

"During this time, we appeal to Singaporeans to exercise good judgement and social responsibility."

Separately, the Singapore Nightlife Business Association will hold its annual general meeting at 6pm on March 25, according to a notice dated March 11 on its website.