The Ministry of Health (MOH) said on 18 June that Work-From-Home will continue to remain default even as the country moves through Phase 3 (Heightened Alert).
Workers who are required to be in the workplace will need to have their start times staggered, and flexible working hours must be implemented.
Workers should also not be cross-deployed to multiple worksites.
Job Support Scheme to be extended
Co-chair of the Multi Ministry Taskforce, Lawrence Wong said:
“We recognise that some businesses will be impacted and therefore, the Ministry of Finance will continue to extend the support measures.”
“Regrettably, we are unable to proceed with our second stage of reopening in light of the latest outbreaks and big cluster that we have discovered in Bukit Merah, and now we have to adjust our plans.”
The Job Support Scheme (JSS) will also be extended for affected sectors.
The JSS helps to subsidise local workers’ salaries.
Business that were required to close were previously slated to receive 50% subsidy until 20 June, followed by 10% until the end of June.
With some restrictions still being in place after 20 June, F&B outlets, gyms, fitness studios and performing arts will now be receiving 50% subsidies for 3 weeks, from 21 June to 11 July.
Then from 12 July onwards, the subsidies will be 10% for two weeks.
Sectors that are affected significantly, such as cinemas, retail and etcetera, they will get a 30% subsidy for 3 weeks followed by 10% for 2 weeks.
Self employed hawkers will also received rental waivers and subsidies for fees for table cleaning and dishwashing services.
Also, the Covid-19 Recovery Temporary Grant will be extended to the end of July for affected workers.
They can then apply for a 2nd round in July, with more details to be announced at a later date.
Images source: Lawrence Wong Facebook and Unsplash