| Safe Distancing Measures |
How can I report errant business owners that continue to operate? |
Please report this business, including providing relevant details
such as its name, address and relevant evidence (e.g. photographs),
to Covid_GoBusiness@mti.gov.sg. |
|
| Changes to work pass services arising from Circuit Breaker measures |
I would like to submit a work pass application for a candidate who is currently
overseas. Can i proceed to do so? |
Employers are also strongly urged to defer bringing
foreigners
into Singapore during this period.
Approvals for any new applications will be very limited.
You may continue to apply passes for foreigners
who are already in Singapore. |
|
| Changes to work pass services arising from Circuit Breaker measures |
I have employees whose passes are expiring. Are we able to renew their passes
during this period? |
Passes expiring from 6 April 2020 to 5 May 2020 will
be automatically extended until 5 June 2020, except for these passes:
Work Permit for Performing Artiste
Training Work Permit
Training Employment Pass
Personalised Employment Pass
Work Holiday Pass
FDWs below 50 years old (Employers may proceed to renew their passes.)
FDWs above 50 years old will have their Work Permits extended until 5 June 2020. |
https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-
permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/renew-a-work-permit |
| Changes to work pass services arising from Circuit Breaker measures |
My Work permit holders need to complete the required trades certification in order
to issue / renew their pass. However, I am unable to send them for the test
as courses are suspended. What should i do? |
You can proceed to get Work Permits issued or renewed for such workers,
as safety course / certification requirements will be waived during this period.
After the additional safe distancing measures are lifted, workers will be
given 1 month to get their required trades certification. |
|
| Safe Distancing Measures |
During this period (7 April to 4 May 2020),
what are the services that will remain open to support daily needs? |
|
https://covid.gobusiness.gov.sg/essentialservices/ |
| Safe Distancing Measures |
How will safe distancing be implemented at F&B outlets? |
|
https://www.enterprisesg.gov.sg/media-centre/media-releases/2020/april/updated_tightening_safe_distancing_measures
_at_food_beverage_establishments |
| Safe Distancing Measures |
How can I report errant business owners that continue to operate? |
Please report this business, including providing relevant details
such as its name, address and relevant evidence (e.g. photographs),
to Covid_GoBusiness@mti.gov.sg. |
|
| Various Sectors |
For Education Sector |
|
https://www.moe.gov.sg/faqs-covid-19-infection |
| Various Sectors |
For Employers and Employees |
|
https://www.mom.gov.sg/covid-19/frequently-asked-questions |
| Various Sectors |
For Tourism Sector |
|
https://www.stb.gov.sg/content/stb/en/home-pages/faq-on-covid-19.html#FAQ |
| Various Sectors |
For Food Industry |
|
https://www.sfa.gov.sg/docs/default-source/default-document-library/covid-related-faqs-for-food-industry.pdf |
| Various Sectors |
For Businesses |
|
https://www.enterprisesg.gov.sg/-/media/esg/files/covid-19/frequently-asked-questions-on-
covid-19_27-mar-2306hrs.pdf |
| Various Sectors |
Find out more on “Essential” and “Non-essential Services” |
|
https://covid.gobusiness.gov.sg/faq/ |
| Various Sectors |
For Built Environment Sector |
|
https://www1.bca.gov.sg/COVID-19 |
| Changes to work pass services arising from Circuit Breaker measures |
I have employees whose passes are expiring. Are we able to renew their passes
during this period? |
|
https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-
permit-for-foreign-domestic-worker/renew-a-work-permit |
| GOVERNMENT QUARANTINE FACILITIES |
Why do we allow university dorms to be designated as Government Quarantine Facilities (GQFs)? Will allowing this put the wider student population at risk? |
Currently, there are three university hostels designated as Government Quarantine Facilities (GQFs) – designated blocks at the National University of Singapore’s (NUS) Prince George’s Park Residences, Nanyang Technological University’s (NTU) Graduate Hall 1, and Singapore Management University’s (SMU) Blk 83 Prinsep St. They have always been part of the Government’s national contingency plan for a disease outbreak. We are getting them ready to be on standby, should the number of people served with QO goes up. The designated hostels will only be primarily activated when a student in our educational institutions or schools is required to serve QOs and does not have suitable accommodation.
Persons served QOs are required to stay in their designated rooms at all times within the allocated quarantine period. They are not allowed to use common facilities within the GQF. There will be no visitors, and food and all necessary supplies will be delivered to them.
There are also security measures in place to ensure compliance to GQF guidelines. All staff working at the GQF are also provided with personal protective equipment, such as masks, as advised by the Ministry of Health (MOH). GQFs also undergo rigorous cleansing and hygiene regimes according to MOH and National Environment Agency (NEA) guidelines. In other words, the persons will not be mingling with the larger population around them. |
|
| INSTITUTES OF HIGHER LEARNING |
The IHLs are suspending their official overseas placements (e.g. internship or exchange programmes). How will the affected students be supported? |
Given the rapidly evolving global COVID-19 situation, MOE and the Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs) have decided to suspend all official overseas placements, including all internships and exchange programmes, until end-July. Students who are currently on such overseas placements will be recalled as soon as is practicable.
The decision to suspend overseas placements was reached after careful consideration of the uncertainties ahead, the fact that the students would be able to access similarly meaningful learning opportunities locally (e.g. local internships, credit bearing modules during summer semester), as well as the well-being of our students and their academic progression.
IHLs will work with each affected student to provide alternative learning arrangements so that they can graduate on time, to support them at no additional cost. MOE will continue to monitor the global situation and work closely with the IHLs to take appropriate measures to ensure the safety and well-being of our students. |
|
| Hotels |
What do I do if I have a confirmed case from my hotel? |
If one of your guests is a confirmed case, MOH will contact you and advise you on the measures that you should take. |
|
| Hotels |
How do we manage guests who are issued Quarantine Orders? |
MOH will issue Quarantine Orders to close contacts of confirmed cases. The Quarantine Orders are issued under the Infectious Diseases Act and have legal force, with severe penalties for non-compliance. Hotels can seek help/advice from MOH if required, by calling the MOH hotline at 63259220. |
|
| Hotels |
Do bars and F&B establishments within my premises need to comply with the enhanced safe-distancing measures? |
Yes, from 26 March 2020, 2359 hours, all bars and entertainment venues, including those within hotel premises will be closed as there is a high risk of transmission due to sustained close contact over a period of time. Entertainment venues include night clubs, discos, cinemas, theatres, and karaoke outlets, etc.
Establishments that serve food and beverage (including alcoholic beverages) may continue to operate but must adhere to existing measures applicable to all food and beverage venues. For more information on the establishments that need to cease operations, please write to us at safedistancing@stb.gov.sg |
|
| Cruise |
How do we handle pasengers from countries affected by COVID-19? Can cruise ships which have no travel history to these countries come to Singapore? |
Singapore has ceased port calls for all cruise vessels. For further information on enhanced measures for cruise lines, please contact MPA Port Operation Control Centre at 62213127/Cruise Division from STB at STB_CRUISE@stb.gov.sg. |
|
| Cruise |
What happens to affected passengers on a cruise ship that was meant to call in Singapore? |
As Singapore has ceased port calls for all cruise vessels, the cruise company will be responsible for handling all alternative arrangements. Cruise companies are encouraged to inform passengers prior to the sailing. |
|
| Cruise |
Should we give refunds to passengers who cancel their cruise bookings because of the virus? |
Decisions on refunds and cancellation policies are based on your commercial considerations as well as the terms and conditions of your contractual obligation to customers. |
|
| Entertainment |
Which entertainment establishments are required to cease operations? |
From 26 March 2020, 2359 hours, all bars and entertainment venues like night clubs, discos, cinemas, theatres, and karaoke outlets will be closed, as there is a high risk of transmission due to sustained close contact over a period of time. |
|
| Dining |
Will F&B outlets have to cease operations? |
F&B outlets (including restaurants, hawker centres, coffeeshops and food courts) can continue to operate for takeaway and/or delivery only. This is to reduce interactions outside of the household. Outlets which do not currently offer takeaway and/or delivery can do so or allow third-party food delivery services to do so for them. While patrons and delivery drivers can continue to enter the premises to access takeaway services, there will be no dine-in service and nobody should consume any food or drinks on site whilst waiting for takeaway food. F&B outlets that remain open must adhere to enhanced safe distancing measures in their premises, and minimise crowds by ensuring patrons are spaced at least 1 metre apart at all times (i.e. within the premise and when queuing). |
|
| Transmission of the COVID-19 |
Can the COVID-19 be transmitted through mosquitoes? |
The COVID-19 virus is spread through close contact and droplets, but not through the bites of mosquitoes. |
|
| Transmission of the COVID-19 |
Can the COVID-19 be transmitted through swimming pools? |
The COVID-19 situation is evolving, and characteristics of the virus are still being determined. For now, there is no evidence to suggest that the COVID-19 can be transmitted through swimming pools. The management and owners of premises are required to conduct daily testing of the pool water for pH and disinfectant levels and maintain a regular cleansing regime to ensure that the water quality complies with the Environmental Public Health (Swimming Pools) Regulations at all times
Users of swimming pools are advised to observe good public hygiene practices such as showering before entering the pool to remove impurities typically found on bodies, and to not spit into the pool. If you’re unwell, please avoid using the pool. |
|
| Transmission of the COVID-19 |
Can the COVID-19 be transmitted through soiled tissue paper? |
The COVID-19 situation is evolving, and characteristics of the virus are still being determined. For now, the evidence suggests that the virus is transmitted mostly through respiratory droplets when people sneeze or cough. As soiled tissue paper may be contaminated with these droplets, we urge the public to always observe good public hygiene practicesand dispose of all litter and soiled tissue into rubbish bins. A clean environment will help stop community transmission of the COVID-19. |
https://www.nea.gov.sg/our-services/public-cleanliness/environmental-cleaning-guidelines/collaterals/7-hygiene-habits |
| Cleaning and disinfection operations |
In light of the COVID-19, will NEA increase its frequency of cleaning for roads, pavements and public areas in Singapore? |
Public areas with high human traffic are typically cleaned more frequently compared to other areas. For example, areas popular with tourists, including Orchard Road, Chinatown and Bugis are cleaned almost hourly. In light of the COVID-19 situation, NEA has increased the cleaning frequency of frequently touched surfaces and public spaces with high human traffic like hawker centres. NEA has also provided guidance to Management Corporation Strata Titles and Town Councils on how to improve their cleaning standards and ensure proper cleaning of surfaces and areas, particularly in areas where there is high public access.
Since the end of January 2020, NEA has stepped up our inspection of public toilets to plug hygiene gaps like inadequate or missing liquid soap. We will also increase enforcement efforts against public hygiene offences, like spitting and littering to safeguard public health. |
|
| Cleaning and disinfection operations |
Does environmental cleaning and disinfection really work to prevent the spread of harmful diseases? |
Viruses may survive on surfaces of different materials for at least 2-3 days, and as a result, potentially contaminated surfaces may play a role in the transmission of the virus when persons come in direct contact with these surfaces. Therefore, it is important to clean and disinfect areas that are frequently touched, to prevent transmission of viruses. |
|
| Cleaning and disinfection operations |
How often will NEA update the interim guidelines for environmental cleaning and disinfection? |
The transmission dynamics of the virus have yet to be fully determined. Working closely with the Ministry of Health and the National Centre for Infectious Diseases, NEA will update the guidelines whenever there are new developments on the COVID-19. |
|
| Cleaning and disinfection operations |
Does NEA authorise cleaning and disinfection companies? |
NEA issues licences to cleaning businesses that provide general cleaning services. However, we do not authorise cleaning businesses to carry out cleaning or disinfection works. We urge the public to be mindful of claims made by the cleaning companies.
Based on information made available to NEA, an interim list of cleaning service providers was put together to provide owners and operators of premises with an easy reference. The list will be updated as more information is gathered. |
|
| Cleaning and disinfection operations |
Does NEA inspect the clean-up and disinfection operations for confirmed cases? |
For non-residential premises where confirmed cases of the COVID-19 were reported:
NEA will engage the management of the premises to provide guidance and direction on the cleaning and disinfection operations. This is to ensure that the cleaning and disinfection of areas where the confirmed cases had spent prolonged periods of time, are done in accordance with NEA’s interim guidelines for cleaning and disinfection. All the common areas of these premises will also need to be wiped down and disinfected with the appropriate disinfectants in accordance with our guidelines.
For residences where confirmed cases of the COVID-19 were reported:
NEA will engage the residents to render assistance that may be necessary. In addition, the respective Town Council or cleaners of private residences will be activated to carry out disinfection works of frequently touched surfaces in the common areas, such as lifts, lift buttons, handrails, lift lobbies, letterboxes, tables and chairs, amongst others, under the close supervision of NEA officers. |
|
| Cleaning and disinfection of residences exposed to the COVID-19 |
For confirmed cases in households, how will NEA ensure that those homes are properly cleaned and disinfected? |
NEA has been in touch with the households to provide guidance and to support them on the cleaning and disinfection operations. This is to ensure that the areas where the confirmed cases had stayed in or had access to, are cleaned and disinfected, to minimise the risk of virus transmission.
Members of the public can also refer to NEA’s Interim guidelines for environmental cleaning and disinfection in residences that may be exposed to the COVID-19 for steps and items required for cleaning and disinfecting your residence, as well as the Interim list of household products and active ingredients for disinfection of the COVID-19 for types of products to be used. |
https://www.nea.gov.sg/our-services/public-cleanliness/environmental-cleaning-guidelines/guidelines/interim-guidelines-for-environmental-cleaning-and-disinfection-in-residences |
| Cleaning and disinfection of residences exposed to the COVID-19 |
How should I clean and disinfect my residence if I suspect that it might have been exposed to the COVID-19? |
Please refer to NEA’s Interim guidelines for environmental cleaning and disinfection in residences that may be exposed to the COVID-19 for steps and items required for cleaning and disinfecting your residence.
Please refer to the Interim list of household products and active ingredients for disinfection of COVID-19 for a list of disinfectants that can be used. |
https://www.nea.gov.sg/our-services/public-cleanliness/environmental-cleaning-guidelines/guidelines/interim-list-of-household-products-and-active-ingredients-for-disinfection-of-covid-19 |
| Cleaning and disinfection of residences exposed to the COVID-19 |
Should I wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) while carrying out disinfection of my home if it may have been exposed to COVID-19? |
For cleaning and disinfection of residences that may have been exposed to COVID-19, you should wear PPE like disposable gloves and surgical masks to protect yourself from potential exposure to the virus and irritants that may be present in some disinfectants. Avoid touching your face, eyes, nose and mouth once you have put on the PPE. Once soiled or damaged, gloves should be removed and discarded, and a new pair should be used after you have washed your hands with soap and water. After cleaning and disinfection has been completed, you should shower and change your clothes immediately.
Please refer to NEA’s Interim guidelines for environmental cleaning and disinfection in residences that may be exposed to the COVID-19 for steps and items required for cleaning and disinfecting your residence. |
|
| Cleaning and disinfection of residences exposed to the COVID-19 |
What are the types of disinfectants I can use to clean my home? How long does the disinfectant need to come in contact with the surface? |
Please refer to the Interim list of household products and active ingredients for disinfection of COVID-19 for a list of disinfectants that can be used. Disinfectants should be prepared and applied in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Bleach can also be used as a disinfectant for cleaning and disinfection (dilute 1 part bleach in 49 parts water, or 1000 ppm). Bleach solutions should be prepared fresh. Leaving the bleach solution for a contact time of at least 10 minutes is recommended. Contact time is the amount of time needed for the disinfectant to come in contact with the microorganisms (e.g. viruses, bacteria) so that a significant number of microorganisms is killed. The contact time may differ with the types of disinfectant used. Refer to the product label’s direction of use on the proper usage and appropriate contact time.
Alcohol can be used to wipe down surfaces where the use of bleach is not suitable, e.g. on metal surfaces. |
|
| Cleaning and disinfection of residences exposed to the COVID-19 |
Will disinfectants such as household bleach cause skin irritation when people come into contact with disinfected surfaces? |
The effects of exposure to bleach varies according to the concentration of the bleach, the duration of exposure and the amount of bleach used. Commonly, a bleach allergy will cause swelling, inflammation and redness at the site of contact. It is not toxic to the skin itself but may cause adverse physical reactions such as itching. Please consult a doctor if the irritation persists after a few days or becomes severe. It is also important to follow the product label’s direction of use to minimise the risk of adverse effects from the use of the disinfectants.
After disinfection, ensure that the area is well ventilated and allowed to dry completely before touching the surfaces. Keep young children away from the disinfected areas until the surfaces are completely dry. |
|
| Cleaning and disinfection of residences exposed to the COVID-19 |
What does “environmental surfaces” mean and which areas and items should I focus on when cleaning and disinfecting my home? |
Environmental surfaces are areas and objects in your home which may be exposed to COVID-19. This will include areas like floors, walls, blinds, tables, kitchen tops and furniture. Pay attention to high touchpoints and surfaces that are frequently touched or come in contact with the human body, such as doorknobs, arm rests, seat backs, tables, keyboards, light switches, etc.
Toilets and accessible surfaces like toilet bowl and taps should also be disinfected. |
|
| Cleaning and disinfection of residences exposed to the COVID-19 |
Do I have to disinfect upholstery and porous items such as mattresses, sofa, curtains, carpets, pillows? |
Yes. Wash all bed sheets, pillow covers, blankets and other fabrics with detergent in the washing machine. Do not use a spray pack to apply disinfectant as it may create splashes which can further spread viruses.
If a person is being tested for COVID-19, do not use mattress(es), pillow(s), carpet(s), cushion(s) that have been used by him/her until he/she is determined to be free of infection. Contact NEA at 1800-2255632 for further instructions on home disinfection if the person has tested positive for COVID-19. |
|
| Cleaning and disinfection of residences exposed to the COVID-19 |
When I disinfect my home, do I need to ask family members to leave the house? |
No. However, it is recommended that people not involved in the cleaning and disinfection should stay away from the area that is being disinfected. |
|
| Cleaning and disinfection of residences exposed to the COVID-19 |
I have pets (like dogs, cats) at home. Will they be infected by COVID-19? Do I need to keep my pets away when I carry out disinfection works? |
Thus far, there have been no reports of animals infected with the COVID-19 or human to animal transmission of the virus. Nevertheless, it is recommended that pets such as cats and dogs be kept away from the area as these pets may introduce microbes onto the disinfected surfaces. |
|
| Cleaning and disinfection of residences exposed to the COVID-19 |
Is it safe to reuse the cleaning equipment that I have used to disinfect my home? |
Cleaning equipment like pails may be reused. However, ensure that that they are are washed thoroughly with disinfectants and dried before reusing them. All cloths and rags used should be placed in double-lined plastic/trash bags which have been tied securely and disposed of immediately as normal waste. |
|
| Cleaning and disinfection of residences exposed to the COVID-19 |
How should I dispose of the waste generated from the disinfection process? |
All waste should be placed in double-lined plastic/trash bags which have been tied securely and disposed of immediately as normal waste. |
|
| Cleaning and disinfection of residences exposed to the COVID-19 |
Do I have to vacate my home for a period of time after the disinfection is completed? |
No. However, do open your windows and doors to ventilate your home. |
|
| Cleaning and disinfection of residences exposed to the COVID-19 |
Who can I engage to disinfect my home? |
Please refer to Interim guidelines for environmental cleaning and disinfection of areas exposed to confirmed case(s) of COVID-19 for a list of cleaning companies that provide disinfection services. |
https://www.nea.gov.sg/our-services/public-cleanliness/environmental-cleaning-guidelines/guidelines/guidelines-for-environmental-cleaning-and-disinfection |
| Cleaning and disinfection of residences exposed to the COVID-19 |
How much does it cost to disinfect my home? |
Please contact the cleaning companies directly for a quote as the price is dependent on factors such as the size of the house. |
|
| Cleaning and disinfection of residences exposed to the COVID-19 |
What other measures do I need to take to prevent disease transmission after disinfection of my home? |
Monitor your health and seek medical attention if you are feeling unwell. Ensure that a high level of personal hygiene is maintained at all times. For more information, please visit www.moh.gov.sg. |
https://www.moh.gov.sg/ |
| TUITION AND ENRICHMENT CENTRES |
What types of classes need to be suspended, given the tighter safe distancing measures announced on 3 Apr 2020? |
All face-to-face tuition and enrichment classes, whether academic or non-academic, are subject to the suspension. This includes enrichment classes for adults.
Classes may be shifted online. |
|
| TUITION AND ENRICHMENT CENTRES |
Will private tutors who are not based in centres be required to suspend their lessons? |
Yes, private tutors must suspend all face-to-face lessons. Social contact should be confined to immediate family members living in the same household during this period.
Tutors may choose to conduct online classes. |
|
| TUITION AND ENRICHMENT CENTRES |
Can MOE help to facilitate a refund of the fees I have already paid? |
As matters pertaining to the payment of fees is a contractual matter and practices vary across different providers, we advise parents, guardians and affected students to work with and seek an amicable resolution directly with the private provider in question. |
|
| PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES IN SCHOOLS |
Do I need to inform my child’s school if my workplace has a confirmed case? |
There is no need to inform the school if your workplace has a confirmed case unless it is you or someone in your immediate household who is a confirmed case. In addition, if you or a member of your household have been issued a quarantine order (QO) and your child is in MK/Primary School, you should also keep the school informed. Please continue to adopt good personal hygiene practices, and seek medical assistance immediately if you or your child are unwell. |
|
| PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES IN SCHOOLS |
When will the suspension on public use of indoor school facilities be lifted? |
MOE will continue to review the public sharing arrangements for these facilities as the COVID-19 situation evolves. |
|
| PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES IN SCHOOLS |
Do MOE’s precautionary measures apply to school vendors? |
The precautionary measures schools have implemented to safeguard the well-being of students and staff also apply to school vendors. Temperature taking is conducted daily for vendors, including canteen vendors, cleaners, security guards, KCare and Student Care Centre staff. Individuals who have a temperature of 38oC or higher, or who exhibit flu-like symptoms, will be asked to seek medical assistance immediately. Vendors who operate outside schools, such as school bus vendors and coaches, have also been advised to adopt good personal hygiene practices and seek immediate medical attention should they feel unwell. Vendors are required to inform the school should they or any of their staff go on medical leave/QO/LOA/SHN. |
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| PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES IN SCHOOLS |
Would Stay Home Notices / Leave of Absence (SHN/LOA) continue to be issued to students during full Home-Based Learning (HBL)? |
SHN/LOA will continue to be issued during the period of full HBL. To ensure that schools remain a safe place for a small group of students returning for support, students who have been issued with SHN/LOA will be required to stay at home and not return to school. |
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| FULL HOME-BASED LEARNING (HBL) FROM 8 APRIL 2020 |
Why is full Home-Based Learning (HBL) only starting on 08 April? Why not move to full HBL immediately? |
We trialled HBL for one day on the week of 30 March. Shifting from one day a week of HBL to full HBL for a period of close to 4 weeks is a major move. We are giving two more days in school for teachers, students and parents to make various preparations, such arranging for alternative care, preparing further instructions on accessing HBL materials, providing students with internet enabled devices and working out the support needed from schools. |
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| FULL HOME-BASED LEARNING (HBL) FROM 8 APRIL 2020 |
I am a working parent who is unable to telecommute to support my child during the full Home-Based Learning (HBL) period. As school-based Student Care Centres (SCCs) will suspend their general services during the HBL period, how is MOE supporting working parents like me who require alternative care arrangements for my child? |
We understand the concerns of parents who will be affected by the suspension of in-person classes in IHLs and schools, and the suspension of services in student care centres, which will also impact childcare arrangements. With mandatory telecommuting for most work places from 7 April 2020, we hope many parents would be able to care for and keep their children at home during this period.
Having said that, if your child is a primary or preschool student, and you are working in essential services such as healthcare, you may approach your child’s school for assistance if you are unable to secure alternative care arrangements. |
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| FULL HOME-BASED LEARNING (HBL) FROM 8 APRIL 2020 |
Will Special Education (SPED) schools also implement full Home-Based Learning (HBL) from 8 April to 4 May 2020? |
Yes. All SPED schools will implement full HBL from 8 April to 4 May 2020. HBL is not new to SPED schools. However, as SPED school students will need their caregivers’ support for their learning, caregivers will receive daily check-ins from SPED school personnel (e.g. teacher, Allied Professional) with regard to the activities for the day, their well-being and the well-being of their children. |
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| FULL HOME-BASED LEARNING (HBL) FROM 8 APRIL 2020 |
Do all Special Education (SPED) schools have Student Care Centres (SCC)? Will they remain open during the Home-Based Learning (HBL) period? |
There are six specialised SCCs in SPED schools, which are run by the Ministry of Social and Family Development. These special SCCs will suspend their general services during the HBL period. Parents are strongly encouraged to keep their children at home during this period. Parents working in essential services such as healthcare, who are unable to secure alternative care arrangements, may approach their children’s SPED schools for assistance. |
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| FULL HOME-BASED LEARNING (HBL) FROM 8 APRIL 2020 |
Can students still come back to school premises during this time? |
We should take reference from the latest national efforts to enhance safe distancing measures and further limit social interactions. Students are therefore strongly advised to stay at home and avoid going out unnecessarily, unless they have been identified for the limited service arrangements or to use the school computers for HBL, which allow them to be in school during the HBL days. Schools and IHLs will be in touch with their students on the necessary arrangements. |
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| FULL HOME-BASED LEARNING (HBL) FROM 8 APRIL 2020 |
Is my child allowed to go out on Home-Based Learning (HBL) days? |
Our teachers will remind the students that they should be learning at home. We urge parents and care-givers to be our partners and reinforce this message, so that the students remain safe and minimise any exposure to the coronavirus. Specifically:
Remain in their place of residence as much as possible
Minimise visitors to the place of residence
Minimise time spent in public places and contact with others
Monitor their health and temperature
Follow their HBL plan closely to continue with their learning |
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| FULL HOME-BASED LEARNING (HBL) FROM 8 APRIL 2020 |
There were some teething issues with accessing the Singapore Students Learning Space (SLS) during the first week of one-day Home-Based Learning (HBL). Is the SLS equipped to accommodate all students under full HBL? |
During the national one-day Home-Based Learning (HBL), while most students and teachers were able to access Student Learning Space (SLS) for their lessons, some experienced intermittent availability of the system on the morning of the first day for primary schools, especially between 8.00am and 9.50am. We resolved the issue quickly through a series of technical measures to better manage the increased user numbers. We had a smoother experience on the second and third days of HBL for the secondary schools and JC/CI.
We have also advised schools on practices that they can adopt to ensure a smooth experience for all SLS users, such as encouraging students to adhere to their allocated log in times to the SLS system to complete their online assignments. We will also ensure that the system remains accessible to users throughout the full HBL period.
In addition to SLS, schools employ different online tools and resources for lessons, or assign learning through offline modes, such as issuing assignments to students using textbooks and workbooks. |
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| FULL HOME-BASED LEARNING (HBL) FROM 8 APRIL 2020 |
I have three children and do not have enough devices at home for their Home-Based Learning (HBL). What should I do? |
HBL involves both online and offline approaches to learning. Therefore, not all HBL will require the use of devices and your children can take turns to use the device.
If the HBL plan issued by the school requires the use of a computer/device and your child is not equipped with one, please approach your child’s school for assistance. All schools are equipped with sufficient devices to loan out to students for online HBL. School can also assist if your child does not have access to the internet at home. |
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| FULL HOME-BASED LEARNING (HBL) FROM 8 APRIL 2020 |
How will centre-based lessons continue? |
Centre-based learning will continue in the Home-Based Learning format until further notice.
However, for graduating students in Secondary 4 and 5, and JC2, the mode of learning will take the form of video-conferencing in their respective schools, or at home, so that ‘live’ lessons can still be conducted without them having to travel to the centres and mingle across schools. This allows teachers to also maintain the quality of interactions with students. |
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| FULL HOME-BASED LEARNING (HBL) FROM 8 APRIL 2020 |
How will students continue with their learning from home? |
Schools will plan and implement a Home-Based Learning (HBL) plan that best suits students’ needs and the nature of the subject. For example, schools may inform their students about specific pieces of homework or textbook reading assignments. We encourage students to exercise self-discipline in following the instructions and completing their lessons and assignments.
Schools can also leverage technology to carry out HBL. Teachers may assign students lessons from the Singapore Student Learning Space (SLS). Teachers will be able to monitor the students’ learning progress and submission of assignments through SLS. In addition, teachers may use real-time video conferencing platforms to conduct some of their lessons, where feasible. |
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| FULL HOME-BASED LEARNING (HBL) FROM 8 APRIL 2020 |
How can I help facilitate/support my child’s learning at home? |
hedule/routine with your child – guide your child in setting goals and scheduling tasks, as part of developing the valuable life skills of time management and self-discipline which your child can acquire when doing Home-Based Learning (HBL). For further tips on guiding your child in setting goals, refer to the Resilience Boosters at https://go.gov.sg/selresforparents.
Have an agreement with your child on managing screen time. When it comes to using technology to support HBL, schools will assign between 2 to 3 hours of online learning every day. You can work out an agreement with your child to take short breaks in between online learning, and reduce their recreational screen time, e.g. time spent on video games and social media. They can replace recreational screen time with healthy offline activities, such as reading books or playing board games with family members. For further tips and guides on reinforcing your child’s cyber wellness, please refer to: https://ictconnection.moe.edu.sg/cyber-wellness/for-parents
Encourage your child to maintain an optimistic and positive outlook while accepting the changes and emotions that he/she has had to face as part of going through HBL. |
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How is MOE/school supporting students’ mental wellbeing during the full Home-Based Learning (HBL) period? |
We understand that students and staff will experience disruption and feel worried. Students may also feel a loss of freedom and miss interacting with their friends during this period.
To support students’ well-being, our teachers will contact students regularly to check in on them and refer students to school counsellors when additional support is needed.
We encourage our students to take active steps to maintain their well-being, including keeping to regular routines, taking care of their physical health and maintaining social relationships through technology with their classmates and friends. Peer support remains critical, and students are encouraged to alert a trusted adult if a friend is distressed.
These can be difficult times for all involved – teachers, parents, students – but let us also learn to take things in our stride, improve and adjust along the way. Most importantly, let us support those who are affected and learn important lessons of resilience and empathy as we work together to deal with the challenges posed by COVID-19. |
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| FULL HOME-BASED LEARNING (HBL) FROM 8 APRIL 2020 |
Now that school-based Mid-Year Examination is cancelled, how will MOE/schools support my child who will be sitting for the national examinations (PSLE, N, O and A Levels)? |
Full Home-Based Learning (HBL) will ensure that learning continues. With the cancellation of school-based Mid-Year Examination, schools will also review and adjust their plans to ensure continuity of teaching and learning through HBL. They will provide adequate and appropriate opportunities (e.g. quizzes, practice papers, performance tasks) to assess students’ ability to apply their learning across a range of topics or subjects, and to familiarise the students with the national examination requirements.
Teachers will guide, monitor and assess students’ learning, plus provide them with feedback for improvement. During the HBL period, teachers are also still available for consultations remotely should students encounter challenges in their lessons and assignments. |
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| FULL HOME-BASED LEARNING (HBL) FROM 8 APRIL 2020 |
If we have to go through a prolonged period of Home-Based Learning (HBL), what will happen to exams? |
For school-based examinations, schools will review and adjust their plans to ensure continuity of teaching, learning and assessment through HBL.
For national examinations, MOE recognises these are major milestones and will ensure that these examinations will proceed as far as possible so that graduating students are not disadvantaged. MOE/SEAB will take various measures to lessen the impact of prolonged HBL on students. For example, if curriculum time cannot be fully recovered, we will consider removing certain topics from the examinations (both for school-based and for national examinations) and the mark scheme will take this into account. When awarding grades, we will also take into consideration the exceptional circumstances to ensure that no students are disadvantaged. As of now, national examinations will proceed with no adjustments necessary. |
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| FULL HOME-BASED LEARNING (HBL) FROM 8 APRIL 2020 |
Would Stay Home Notices / Leave of Absence (SHN/LOA) continue to be issued to students during full Home-Based Learning (HBL)? |
SHN/LOA will continue to be issued during the period of full HBL. To ensure that schools remain a safe place for a small group of students returning for support, students who have been issued with SHN/LOA will be required to stay at home and not return to school. |
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| FULL HOME-BASED LEARNING (HBL) FROM 8 APRIL 2020 |
Will MOE extend full Home-Based Learning? |
We are constantly monitoring the situation and reviewing our measures. We will take into consideration the prevailing healthcare situation, medical advice and the national posture, before assessing if these measures need to be prolonged. |
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| FULL HOME-BASED LEARNING (HBL) FROM 8 APRIL 2020 |
Will National School Games (NSG) be reinstated after June 2020? |
NSG for the Senior, ‘B’ and ‘A’ Divisions will not be reinstated after June 2020, because there is insufficient time to complete the season within the school calendar.
We will monitor the developments closely, and assess the possibility of reinstating NSG for ‘C’ Division and Junior Division after June 2020. |
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| General Information about COVID-19 Situation |
What are Coronaviruses? |
Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses causing illnesses ranging from the common cold to pneumonia (a more severe lung infection). A new coronavirus strain has been identified in Wuhan, China. Coronavirus Disease 19 (COVID-19) has caused cases of severe pneumonia in China and cases have been exported to other countries and cities. |
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| General Information about COVID-19 Situation |
How does COVID-19 spread? |
There is human-to-human transmission of COVID-19. For now, the evidence suggests spread is mostly via droplets. The virus is carried within droplets emitted from an infected person over a short distance, such as when the person coughs or sneezes. If these droplets come into contact with the eyes, nose or mouth of another person, directly or indirectly through hands that have come into contact with these droplets, the other person may become infected. Members of public are advised to remain vigilant and observe good personal hygiene practices.
MOH is closely monitoring the evolving situation and members of public are advised to check the MOH website for updates. |
https://www.moh.gov.sg/home |
| General Information about COVID-19 Situation |
What are the symptoms of COVID-19? |
The symptoms of COVID-19 infection are similar to that of regular pneumonia. Typical symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath. |
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| General Information about COVID-19 Situation |
What is the treatment for COVID-19? |
Supportive treatment is provided based on the patient’s clinical condition. No proven specific treatment or anti-viral drug for COVID-19 is currently available. |
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| General Information about COVID-19 Situation |
Is the disease deadly? How is this compared to SARS? |
The situation is evolving and many characteristics of the virus and how it may affect people are still unclear. However, current information suggests COVID-19 can cause severe disease and death in 2% to 3% of people with the infection, especially among the elderly and those people with underlying health problems or compromised immune systems. |
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| General Information about COVID-19 Situation |
Evidence suggests that the COVID-19 may have originated from animals. Do I need to avoid live animals locally, including my pets?
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No. MOH’s advice is meant primarily for members of the public who are overseas or planning to travel overseas, and may come into contact with live animals, poultry and birds. Currently, there is no evidence of animal-to-human transmission in Singapore. Hence, there is no known risk of people being infected by COVID-19 through their pets or other animals. |
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| General Information about COVID-19 Situation |
Is the virus found in animals locally? |
NParks has biosurveillance programmes to quickly detect animal diseases, including COVID-2019. So far, we have not detected it in animals in Singapore. |
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| General Information about COVID-19 Situation |
If I defer my travel, will travel insurance cover my trip cancellation, postponement of flight tickets and hotels? How do I go about seeking refund? |
You are advised to check with your respective travel insurance providers for information on coverage and compensation. |
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| General Information about COVID-19 Situation |
How are the frontline workers, e.g., airline staff, healthcare workers, checkpoint staff, protected, to make sure that they do not get sick and spread the diseases? |
Employees working in the various sectors would have received sector-specific advisories, which include measures and precautionary measures that employees and employers can take.
Please refer to the sector-specific advisories for more details. |
https://www.moh.gov.sg/covid-19/advisories-for-various-sectors |
