The Singapore Tourism Board (STB), Enterprise Singapore (ES) and Singapore Police Force (SPF) have reminded nightlife operators that any "farewell" event hosted tonight must have fewer than 250 participants and implement all necessary safe distancing measures.

This comes a day after the Ministry of Health (MOH) announced closure of entertainment venues, such as nightclubs, bars, cinemas and theatres, from 26 March 2020, 11:59pm. 

Congregation of people

According to the joint statement, government agencies "are aware that a number of nightlife operators intend to host 'farewell' events tonight that could result in large numbers of people congregating".

The statement reminded nightlife operators that from now until the closure of entertainment venues tomorrow, the following safe distancing measures should be implemented:

• Events with 250 or more participants must be suspended
• A distance of at least a metre between all participants
• Reduce mingling amongst participants

"Safe distancing measures are enforceable"

In the statement, it was highlighted that the current safe distancing measures are enforceable and that officers from government agencies, such as SPF, will be on the ground to do so, if required.

At the same time, the traffic police will also be carrying out enforcement against drink-driving and will not hesitate to take action against those who do not comply with the rules.

The statement emphasised that stricter safe distancing measures are paramount to reducing the risks of starting new local Covid-19 clusters.

The government agencies involved urged everyone who is planning on attending tonight's "farewell" events to "seriously reconsider" for the sake of public health.

Here's the full statement:

Top photo by Antoine Julien/Unsplash