Finance Minister Lawrence Wong, co-chair of the Multi-Ministry Task Force, cautioned Singaporeans that further restrictions could yet be implemented after Phase 2 (Heightened Alert) ends after June 13.

This came after Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said in a national address that with the fall in cases since the measures were implemented, the restrictions could be relaxed.

Wong said that the measures are working and "bearing fruit", but Singapore isn't out of the woods just yet.

He then turned from the arboreal metaphor to a fire-related one to describe the possibility of another super-spreader event causing an outbreak:

"I go back to the metaphor that we had used last year, of a fire. We are taking steps to contain the fire and to minimise its spread. But the embers of the fire are still out there, and they can easily spark another major flare-up."

The situation is highly fluid, and assessments are being updated on a daily basis, he said.

Wong added, "We must also be mentally prepared that we cannot rule out the possibility of further restrictions down the road if they become necessary."

Studying patterns of behaviour to identify new areas of risk

Wong explained that the authorities are studying the recent Covid-19 cases to see if there is a common pattern of activity or movement that might suggest new areas of risk, which can be addressed by additional safeguards if necessary.

He gave the example of a specific venue where multiple breaches were detected, as such, the venue could be closed down.

He also thanked everyone in Singapore for doing their part to help curb the spread of the virus:

"All of you have demonstrated tremendous discipline, and social responsibility over the past two to three weeks. So thank you very much for this tremendous response.

We've done well so far. But this is not the time to relax or to let our guard down. In fact, it is absolutely critical that we continue to stay home and to work from home wherever possible, go out only for essential activities, and minimise our daily contacts. If you feel unwell, see a doctor immediately."

Read all the stories from PM Lee's national address and MTF press conference here:

Top image from MCI.