Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said in a Facebook post that he is glad to see most Singaproeans still choosing to keep their masks on outdoors despite the relaxed mask-wearing rules.
However, he said that we are far from being out of the woods as our healthcare system isstill facing a heavy load.
Here is his statement
Two years ago today, Singapore entered into a Circuit Breaker. Faced with a surge in unlinked COVID-19 cases, we made this difficult and drastic decision to bring down the numbers and protect lives. Shops and businesses were closed, many employees shifted to working remotely, while schools implemented full home-based learning. Our streets fell silent. It was a time of disruptive change. Major sectors ground to a halt, and our economy took a hit.
In this tough situation, Singaporeans remained united and resilient. Neighbours brought food and groceries to those unable to do so themselves. Volunteers organised themselves to help the vulnerable. The government rolled out comprehensive financial support measures to save livelihoods and businesses. Meanwhile healthcare and essential workers bore the brunt of the load, to keep our society functioning.
Today, we are in much better shape. Most of us are vaccinated and boostered. Many have gotten the virus and recovered from it, raising our population immunity. We have established safe management measures that can be dialed up or down as needed. As a society, we are also acting safely and responsibly. Despite our relaxed mask-wearing rules, I’m glad to see most Singaporeans have cautiously chosen to keep their masks on outdoors.
However, we are far from being out of the woods. Our healthcare system is still facing a heavy load, with healthcare workers working tirelessly day and night. As we adjust to the new normal, do continue exercising social and personal responsibility, such as by testing ourselves if we feel unwell, and abiding by prevailing SMMs. Let’s continue marching forward to get through this pandemic together. – LHL