Restrictions tightened in Singapore amid surge in Covid-19 infections
Following a surge in infections, Singapore has been forced to tighten restrictions once more in a bid to curtail the spread of Covid-19. Nation Thailand reports that the city state has now reduced gatherings from 5 to 2 people, with the exception of members of the same family. The measure will remain in place until October 24 and applies to outdoor dining, as well as personal vehicles and taxis.
People who can do so are being asked to work from home, while offices or work sites where employees must be present are required to carry out weekly Covid-19 testing through antigen kits. The government is urging people over the age of 60 not to attend religious ceremonies, even if fully vaccinated.
In related news, the authorities in Malaysia are cracking down on fake Covid-19 vaccine certificates as the country re-opens several businesses to fully inoculated residents. The police say the crime of falsifying vaccine certificates carries a punishment of up to 7 years’ imprisonment and a fine of 100,000 Malaysian ringgit (around 800,000 baht).
To date, 10 people have been charged with forging Covid-19 vaccine certificates and selling the forgeries online for between 200 and 1,500 ringgit each (approximately 1,600 – 12,000 baht). The crackdown is happening as re-opened businesses such as shops, hair salons, and restaurants require proof of vaccination before admitting customers. Fully vaccinated residents can also holiday in Langkawi and visit mosques and other centres of worship.
Covid-19 infections in Southeast Asia showed an increase on Sunday, but deaths from the virus fell when compared to the day before, according to the Nation Thailand report. On Sunday, ASEAN nations reported 63,014 new infections compared to 59,202 on Saturday. Deaths were lower at 712, compared with Saturday’s 758 fatalities. In total, the ASEAN region has reported over 11.89 million infections and 258,776 deaths.
SOURCE: Nation Thailand
