Domestic Workers Can Still Run Errands & Dabao Meals On Rest Days
Update (17 Jun): Domestic workers should not gather in large groups on their rest days as Singapore embarks on Phase 2 of reopening this Friday (19 Jun), said the Ministry of Manpower.
MOM also said in the press release that those who plan on spending their rest days outside should seek permission from their employers for arrangements to head out on weekdays instead.
Additionally, they are advised to install and activate the TraceTogether app on their phones.
Other safe-distancing measures including wearing of masks and hanging out in groups fewer than 5 should also be strictly adhered to.
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Even as Singapore exits the ‘Circuit Breaker’, leaving home for non-essential purposes is still not allowed.
On Saturday (13 Jun), the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) issued an advisory urging domestic workers to stay home even on their rest days.
Crowd at Lucky Plaza on 7 Jun
Source
This came after MOM noticed domestic workers congregating at “hotspots” like City Plaza, Lucky Plaza, and Peninsular Plaza last weekend.
Domestic workers should stay home during Phase 1
In the statement, MOM said that domestic workers should continue staying home even on their rest days during Phase 1 of reopening.
There are, however, exceptions to this rule. They are still allowed to “run errands” and dabao meals, but should return home immediately after they’re done.
They should also observe standard guidelines while they’re out, such as maintaining a 1-metre distance from others, wearing a mask at all times, and not meeting friends from different households.
Last weekend, MOM reportedly observed domestic workers crowding at 3 hotspots:
- City Plaza
- Lucky Plaza
- Peninsular Plaza
While some had apparently headed down to remit funds, others met up with friends in groups.
Crowd at Lucky Plaza on 7 Jun
Source
Remitting money on appointment basis only
In line with this, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has worked with “licensed remittance agents” in these 3 malls to serve customers on an appointment basis on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays.
As such, all customers – domestic workers included – should first get an appointment before heading down to these locations for their transactions.
Those who failed to secure appointments should remit funds via electronic means or visit agents at other locations.
To help facilitate this, the Remittance Association of Singapore is expected to launch a software on Monday (15 Jun) that allows its members to arrange appointments online.
Inconvenient, but necessary to prevent spread of virus
The new appointment-based system for remittance will surely bring about some degree of inconvenience for customers.
That said, it’s a necessary measure to combat the crowding situation at some of the “hotspots”, which may potentially allow the coronavirus to spread.
Featured image adapted from Facebook.
