Singapore Tightens Covid Restrictions: Why You Can Only Hang Out in Twos Now
Starting Sunday, May 16, Singapore is rolling back the social calendar: you’re only allowed to step out with one partner or friend at a time until June 13. That means two’s the new normal—but be sure you’re not counting pets as extra guests.
Households must limit visitors to just two per day, and don’t think “two plus” will work trick. Restaurants and hawker centres are takeaway‑only, because keeping a mask on while chewing for an hour is a recipe for transmission.
Work‑from‑home is back. Firms have to ensure their crew can actually do corporate duties from a comfy couch. No extra out‑of‑office trips—unless it’s something truly essential.
Education Minister Lawrence Wong says the tightening is urgent because lately, a bunch of folks hopped on the Changi tarmac and unknowingly became virus couriers. “We’ve got unlinked cases rising and a hidden headache inside the community,” he added, highlighting the 46 Changi‑airport‑cluster cases—the biggest cluster Singapore has handled so far.
Parents can still send grandkids in for everyday care. It’s not counted against the two‑visitor limit, but grandparents are strongly encouraged to get the vaccine and to keep grandchildren from mingling across households. It’s child’s play—no, tricky play.
Other activities receive a no‑go verdict:
- In‑house exercise classes and sports are out of the window.
- Facials and any beautification that requires mask removal are prohibited.
- Singing and wind or brass instruments are also kicked.
And there’s a rule for big socials:
- Wedding receptions are banned; ceremonies can proceed for up to 100 people if everyone takes a pre‑event test, or for 50 otherwise.
- Worship services: 50 people max unless tested, up to 100 if everyone tests.
- Malls and showrooms: floor area now 16 m² per person instead of 10 m².
- Attractions allowed at 50 % capacity must cut to 25 %.
- Shows and performances: up to 50 people, rising to 100 with pre‑testing.
- Museums and libraries: only 25 % capacity.
- Cinemas can host 100 folks with pre‑testing, or 50 otherwise. Two per group, no food in‑the‑movie (and no energy drinks).
New test rule: Anyone showing doctor symptoms gets a rapid antigen (with a side of a more accurate PCR) under the microscope. The rollout starts with about 200 HMO clinics from the weekend, then spreads progressively.
Mr Wong urged everyone to treat these measures like a surefire step toward safety. “We know this is a huge inconvenience, but let’s stay united, keep each other safe, and step up.” He especially called for people to only go out for essentials—no more mall snacking unless it’s truly essential.
While the new policy might feel like a reality check, breathe a little: you’ll get used to the two‑person jam. The city might feel “quarantine”, but it’s also “two’s company, three’s a crowd” for everyone, saving us all from a big breakout.
Originally published in The Straits Times.
