ESM Goh Chok Tong: Screen 'nostalgic' TV shows for elderly S'poreans during circuit breaker

This is because many elderly folk are not tech-savvy and cannot connect with friends on smart devices.

Melanie Lim | April 17, 2020, 11:45 AM

Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong wrote a Facebook post regarding how elderly Singaporeans are coping with the new circuit breaker measures.

He also wondered if local service providers like Mediacorp, Singtel and Starhub could "screen nostalgic local TV productions" for elderly Singaporeans.

"Older people are happiest when they recall good old younger days"

ESM Goh mentioned that his "heart goes out to the elderly Singaporeans cooped up at home."

According to him, many elderly folk are "not tech-savvy" and "cannot connect with friends on smart devices."

To "ignite" these elderly, ESM Goh wrote that local service providers could screen TV productions like "Wang Sa and Yeh Fong" or "Moses Lim in Under One Roof".

"I used to enjoy a good laugh watching these shows. Older people are happiest when they recall their good old younger days," he added.

Mediacorp commented on his post, agreeing with his stance.

In response to another comment asking for more viewing options for Malay and Indian seniors, Mediacorp promised to take his suggestions.

Stricter restrictions to counter problem of elderly Singaporeans hanging around outside

Since circuit breaker measures kicked in on April 7, there have been numerous reports of elderly Singaporeans hanging around outside their homes.

To counter this problem, all beaches and selected areas in Singapore's parks and nature reserves have been closed.

Fines for not adhering to safe distancing measures have also been put in place.

In a widely viewed Facebook video, Singaporean actor Aaron Aziz has also urged elderly folk to stay home in Hokkien.

Top image via MParader on Facebook and Discovery Don on YouTube