Singapore could reach 'new normal' in 3 to 6 months: PM Lee

SINGAPORE'S war against the Covid-19 pandemic continues, but the country is in a much better position today compared to a year or even six months ago, said Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Saturday (Oct 9).

"Sometimes it may not feel like it, but we are making steady progress towards the new normal," he said in a televised national address.

He added that it could take "at least three months, and perhaps as long as six months" for Singapore to get to a "new normal" state.

This will be when the country can ease off on its restrictions, have just light safe management measures in place, and when daily new cases remain stable at "perhaps hundreds a day, but not growing", said PM Lee.

The new normal will be when hospitals can return to business as usual, and when people can resume activities in the pre-Covid era, and see crowds again without getting worried or feeling strange.

PM Lee noted that a few countries have already reached this state, such as those in Europe. "But they have paid for it dearly, losing many lives along the way," he said.

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After the current surge of infections stabilises, the prime minister warned that Singapore could still see future surges, especially if new variants of the virus emerge.

The authorities might have to "tap on the brakes again" if cases grow too fast again, in order to protect the healthcare system and its workers.

"Our capacity and processes continue to improve. As more people are exposed to the virus and recover, our immunity levels will increase," he said.

"Covid-19 will spread less quickly among us. With each passing day, we are getting stronger and more resilient, and we are more ready to live with the virus in our midst."

PM Lee added that Singapore will get to the new normal "in a careful and safe manner", with no one left behind to fend for themselves and with as few casualties as possible along the way.

"With everyone's cooperation, we will put the pandemic behind us, hopefully soon. We have the resources, the determination, and the courage to get through this crisis," he said.

"The pandemic has brought out the best in Singaporeans. We have stayed united and resolute despite the difficulties. Let us keep that up, and continue working together to complete the journey towards Covid-resilience."

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