The Ministry of Manpower has released a new advisory to foreign domestic workers (FDWs) on Jun. 17, in light of the Ministry of Health's (MOH) announcement about the shift to Phase 2 on Jun. 18 at 11:59pm.

The new MOM's advisory "outlines appropriate arrangements" for FDWs on their rest days, which will be in place until they are withdrawn, replacing the previous advisory that required FDWs to stay home during their rest days in Phase 1.

Should seek consent of employer for weekday rest day

According to MOM's advisory, FDWs who wish to spend their rest days outside should seek the consent of their employers to do so on a weekday, when public spaces are less crowded.

FDWs should also inform their employers of their whereabouts, stated MOM.

They are also strongly encouraged to download and activate the TraceTogether app to facilitate contact tracing.

MOM's advisory reminded FDWs who choose to go out on their rest day that, like the rest of the community, they should:

• Wear a mask and maintain a safe distance from one another.
• Observe good personal hygiene and avoid sharing food, drinks and other personal items, Reduce their time spent outside and limit the number of contacts that they meet on their rest day.
• Comply with safe distancing measures at malls and public places and must not gather in groups of more than five.

Should not loiter in public places

FDWs should not loiter in public places, stated MOM, nor should they visit crowded places, such as City Plaza, Lucky Plaza, or Peninsula Plaza.

For FDWs who wish to remit money at those places, MOM said that the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has advised remittance agents that they should schedule appointments with clients.

Alternatively, MOM encourages FDWs to conduct remittance via electronic platforms.

MOM's advisory stated:

"MOM will be on the ground carrying out inspections and will disperse large group and outdoor gatherings.

FDWs who do not cooperate risk being fined and having their work passes revoked."

"As we all adapt to the new normal, it is important to maintain open communication with your FDW and help your FDW understand the above guidelines and requirements," wrote MOM.

Top photo via Facebook / Ministry of Manpower.