New Social Gathering Laws : What you need to know

Do you know that social gathering is legally not allowed now?



Current Guidelines

1) Stay at home : Avoid interactions with anyone outside your family members who are already living with you
2) Go out only if you have to do essential things such as going to work, groceries or daily solo exercise
3) If you have to go out and cannot avoid close contact with others, wear a mask.

Source : Minister Lawerence Wong

If you had followed the local news on COVID19, you would have heard about the new law that will prohibit social gatherings of any size in both private and public spaces in Singapore. As draconian as this law sounds, it is necessary given the number of incidents that showed that a cane is necessary to deliver the message.

At the same time, there was some confusion as to what can or cannot be done. Base on the guidelines provided, this is what you can expect from the new law



NEW Rules on Social Gathering

• No more private parties or gatherings among family members or friends not living together at home

• No gatherings in public spaces such as parks and void decks of public housing estates among family members or friends not living together.

• An individual can still visit a family member for assistance for daily needs ( eg visit elderly to top up groceries)

• Drop off to family members for informal childcare is still allowed  This is not verified under the new Gazette. Refer here for clarity 

• Enforcement offers can take action against individuals, business owners or entities flouting the orders and requirements.

• Enforcement offices include police officers, public offices and health officers appointed under the infection Disease act

• Bill will allow the Health Minister to prohibit events and gatherings or impose conditions on how they are conducted and the participation in such activities.

• Loitering or inter-mingle in groups in the public area may be subjected to stern action

Penalties

• First Timers - Fine up to $10.000, imprisonment of up to six months, or both.
• Second of subsequent offences - Fine up to $20,0000 and imprisonment of up to 12 months or both.

Cover Image: Jason Goh Pixabay

Related Read: Time to bring out the Cane-  Why the Rotan is necessary to stop COVID19 in Singapore.