Even as Singapore gradually opens up the economy and social settings, mask-wearing will remain mandatory, said Minister for Sustainability and the Environment, Grace Fu.

This was her response to a question by Member of Parliament (MP) Cheryl Chan on how social distancing ambassadors (SDA) will be aided to enforce rules on the ground as more grey areas surface due to further easing of measures.

Mask wearing an important measure

Fu explained that wearing a mask would help reduce the spread of the virus by significantly reducing the droplets and aerosols ejected from the person.

She cited a recent study by the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), which found that small particles from a person's cough could travel more than 1m in eight seconds if no mask is worn.

Fu said: "Mask wearing will remain an important measure for public health, to protect ourselves and those we come in contact with. Mask wearing will remain mandatory for anyone leaving their homes," said Fu.

"Everyone should put on your mask at all times, including putting your mask back on immediately after activities such as eating, drinking, or engaging in strenuous exercise," added Fu.

Helping the SDAs

Chan then asked a supplementary question about what more can be done to aid the SDAs helping to enforce safe-distancing measures, and also for the public to not make things difficult for the SDAs, as there are varying circumstances that might require SDAs to use their own judgment.

Fu said that rules are actually "quite clear", clarifying that people are supposed to put on a mask immediately after they have finished eating.

She said that the SDAs are regularly updated on the safe distancing measures, including the rules of engagement with premise owner operators and members of the public.

However, Fu said that SDAs are not everywhere at all times, and it depends on customers and patrons to do their part.

Fu said: "So I just want to reiterate that the rules are quite clear as advice, you know, informed by science. The more we are able to protect ourselves through masks, the safer we are."

"However, the SDAs are there to remind, sometimes to enforce," added Fu.

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Top image from CNA.