Singapore’s New Game Plan: Extra Cash & Care for Businesses & Families
On Monday, April 6, Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat will drop a fresh wave of support over the night’s parliamentary session. Think of it as an “extra boost” that sits on top of the relief already laid out in Budget 2020 and the recent supplementary budget.
Why the Booster?
During a cheeky Facebook post on Friday (April 3), Heng teased that the new measures will be a safety net to help companies keep slots open for their staff and will jump-start operations once the “circuit breaker” is turned off. For the rest of the population, households and especially the vulnerable groups will get a handhold for at least the next month.
The “Circuit Breaker” Shake‑Up
- Ousting most workplaces from the day‑to‑day routine.
- Rolling out home‑based learning for kids and school‑goers.
- Locking down the city’s social scene to curb COVID‑19 spread.
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong himself laid out the heavy toll at an earlier, nation‑wide address. He shrugged: “This is a hard time for everyone. We’ve got to lift a hand.” And DPM Heng was quick to echo the sentiment, telling employees that they’re in the same boat.
Business Pain Points
Heng said, “These restrictions are a real headache. Workers are scared about their jobs. I get it!” Businesses are indeed feeling the strain, and the added measures are designed to ease that load.
Legislation on the Horizon
- Tenant Tax Breakthrough – landlords will now be required to pass on full property‑tax rebates to their tenants. The goal? To keep rent costs down for renters as the economy readjusts.
- Deferral Drafts – temporary laws that let both companies and individuals put off a few obligations. Think delaying rent, loan payments, or even contractual deadlines. The idea is to give people breathing room while they navigate the market’s ups and downs.
All set? On April 6 the government’s new plan should offer just the right push to steady businesses and support families through the next month of uncertainties. Stay tuned – the next wave of relief is almost here!
HELP FOR VULNERABLE GROUPS AND PARENTS OF YOUNG CHILDREN
Singapore’s Support Plan Gets a Fresh Spin
On Friday (April 3), Minister for Social and Family Development Desmond Lee took the media’s spotlight to reassure every Singaporean that the vulnerable among us won’t be left hanging.
Pre‑School Open, Parents Hold on Tight
While the new rules urge parents to keep their kids at home from April 8 to May 4, pre‑schools stay open for those who can’t find another caretaking setup—think essential workers, low‑wage or daily‑rated employees, and families that might otherwise be lost in the shuffle.
Children of healthcare workers, the under‑employed, and any family that needs a boost get the front seat. Parents can drop by their child’s pre‑school for help or swing by their primary school if they’re already enrolled in student care.
Money Matters: The Subsidy Shuffle
- The Early Childhood Development Agency relaxes attendance requirements for pre‑school subsidies for the month of April.
- The Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) does the same for the Student Care Fee Assistance scheme.
- Even if your child stays home for a month, you’ll still snag those helpful subsidies.
Keeping the Line Moving: Non‑Essential Services on Pause
- MSF will put a hold on non‑essential services.
- Social Service Offices (SSOs) open, ready to offer support with safe distancing.
- From the Temporary Relief Fund to the Covid‑19 Support Grant and ComCare, those who need a hand are covered.
The Temporary Relief Fund: What You Can Expect
- Applications stay open until the end of April.
- No rush—take your time.
- A one‑time cash grant of $500 will reach anyone who’s lost their job or income because of the virus.
- From the launch in May, the Covid‑19 Support Grant kicks in, offering longer‑term aid and job support.
More than 60,000 folks have already signed up since the fund began on April 1. To cut down on trips to community centres (CCs) and SSOs, an online form will drop next week. Safe‑distancing steps will roll out for the Temporary Relief Fund as well.
Counter services at CCs and SSOs will close for the weekend and re‑open on Monday (April 6). In the meantime, you can pick up the application form at self‑service kiosks and drop it off in the boxes.
From the Front, To the Home: A Continuity Blueprint
- Residential homes keep helping vulnerable seniors, those in distress, people with disabilities, and kids in statutory care.
- MSF bullet‑proof services—family violence, child abuse, self‑harm—remain active.
- The National Council of Social Service gear up to bring tech and remote solutions to the table, ensuring food support and daily essentials remain steady.
“While these measures may cause some inconvenience, they’re essential to safeguard everyone’s health and safety. We’re asking for your patience and cooperation,” said Mr Lee.
Turn the page to the original piece from The Straits Times (reproduction permission required) and stay tuned for future updates on our fight against the coronavirus.
