Why the Pandemic Still Keeps Us On Our Toes (and What’s Being Done About It)
Even after the last wave of Covid‑19 has faded, the ripple effects of that global health crisis are still squeezing both businesses and everyday folks. It’s like that stubborn stain on a shirt – you’re not sure it’s gone, but it keeps reappearing.
Singapore’s Economic Boost – Big, Bold, and Bulky
The Singapore Government recently dropped a second supplementary economic package, a whopping 7.5 times larger than last month’s. Think of it as a life‑vessel that’s been pumping out cash and support while the city-state works to keep its economy afloat.
From Gig‑Workers to Gig‑Businesses – A Universal Need for Help
Every sector—from the swanky food tech startups to the lone gig worker hustling in the streets—could use a bit more assistance. The “new normal” is still a work‑in‑progress, and many are scrambling to keep their bills paid and bank accounts healthy.
Companies Throwing Their Weight Behind the Fight
- Razer is donating up to 1 million face masks to local authorities. That’s like giving out headlines of hope instead of headlines of doom.
- Grab launched GrabCare, a ride‑share service for healthcare professionals who can’t find reliable transport between shifts.
These gestures might not quell the virus, but they’re like a health potion for those whose “health” is on the low end. A big thank‑you to everyone who’s stepping in.
Tying It All Together: The Local Telcos and Their Customer‑First Play
Meanwhile, our local telcos are crafting practical solutions to help consumers and businesses alike — from special data packages to emergency support lines. It’s encouraging to see that they’re staying on the front lines, ensuring that everyone has a way forward.
The Bottom Line?
Even if you think Covid‑19 might not stick around forever, the chain reactions it triggered are still rolling. But with new government funds, corporate goodwill, and community‑focused telcos, the tide is slowly turning in favor of those who need help staying afloat in these uncertain times.
StarHub
StarHub’s Pandemic‑Friendly Boosts
StarHub stepped up early on the front lines against Covid‑19, rolling out a series of thoughtful goodies for both business and everyday users during the February–March period.
SMBs Get Remote‑Work Magic for Free
- On 1 Feb 2020, small‑to‑medium business customers could snag a free SmartUC Mobile subscription that lets landline calls pop up on their mobile phones.
- Voicemail is sent straight to the customer’s preferred email inbox – no fuss, no wait.
- The handy app works on laptops and smartphones, just install it and you’re set.
- This generous offer is valid until 1 Sept 2020, giving teams plenty of time to benefit.
Business‑Friendly Extras Go Even Further
- StarHub offered a 70 % discount on unlimited Business Wireless Broadband to keep companies connected.
- Other perks included free trial switches and additional connectivity bonuses to smooth out the home‑office setup.
Regular Plans Get Their Share Too
- Everyday StarHub customers weren’t left out – the surge of support extended to them as well.
Corporate Individual Scheme (CIS) for Healthcare Workers
- Healthcare professionals on the CIS received six months of unlimited local talk time starting 1 Apr 2020, giving them uninterrupted communication.
- They also received a $200 discount on selected phone models for two‑year plans, easing the cost burden.
“Stay‑at‑Home” Bonuses
- For folks stuck at home, StarHub offered a free preview of ten diverse channels on the StarHub Go streaming app – a mix of movies, shows, and live sports.
- Data‑free streaming for StarHub Mobile postpaid customers was available until 24 Apr 2020, letting subscribers watch without worrying about extra data charges.
With these sweeping moves, StarHub aimed to keep everyone—budding entrepreneurs, everyday users, and frontline heroes—connected and entertained during a challenging time.
Singtel
Singtel’s Heartwarming $2 M Charity Drive
Yesterday, Singtel the telecomies decided to toss a tidy $2 million into the bucket of good‑deeds, aiming to lift a host of beat‑up groups—think middle‑class strangers, frontline health heroes, and the never‑ending pool of volunteers who keep society humming.
Touching Lives Philanthropy in Action
- The Courage Fund gets a $500 k arm’s‑length.
- Healthcare charities snag a cool $600 k.
- Totalling 18 charities and social enterprises benefitting.
The grant streams from two sources: the salaries of Singtel’s top‑level crew, and the folks who voluntarily chip in—directors, managers, and the wider staff garage. Classic corporate generosity, front‑and‑center.
Free‑bie Goodness for Everyone
Big‑time freebies for consumers and SMEs, starting 1 April 2020
There’s a kind of sugar‑free “care package” in store. For SMEs, if you’re juggling WFH, remote shifts, or a split team, you’ll receive half‑a‑year of zero‑charge usage—across productivity, collaboration, and security tools.
Meanwhile, the Singlet‑owned 99sme.sg opens its doors for free, giving businesses a robust digital marketplace and a slick platform to keep going.
Consumer perks (because why not?!)
All Singtel subscribers get three months of free thrills via the Cast streaming app: channels like Discovery, Asian Food Network, Cartoon Network, and Nickelodeon are all in the mix.
Customers with Singtel TV enjoy an extra 30‑channel free pass—from AXN to CNBC, Discovery Asia, and KBS World. Whether you’re woods‑deep or a couch‑potato, there’s something for everyone.
Mobile‑only highlights
- Pre‑paid users topping up via Hi!App (iOS/Android) receive 30‑day COVID‑19 insurance from NTUC Income.
- WhatsApp premium messaging stays data‑free for an entire stretch—from 8 April to 7 July 2020.
There’s even a door to keep up with the latest on the pandemic: if you need quick facts, you’re set.
Originally published on Hardware Zone, this upbeat slice of corporate kindness gets a twirl for the “real‑world” feel in our rewrite.
