OYK explained that COVID-19 is like riding a bicycle downslope.
21 hrs ·
I explained that COVID-19 is like riding a bicycle downslope. Left on its own, it goes faster and faster, until we lose control and the bike crashes.
We need to apply the brakes so that our bike goes at a controlled speed. Our 3 brakes are Safe Management Measures, border controls, vaccination and boosters.
How fast are we going downslope now? With the brakes, things are stabilising and the bike is slowing down somewhat.
This is why we announced a calibrated relaxation of measures today.
First, up to 5 members of the same household, can now dine together.
Second, more VTLs for Malaysia, Sweden and Finland. The VTL with Malaysia is particularly important, as Malaysia is our closest neighbour, and families have been separated for so long between our two countries because of COVID-19.
Third, bring back more activities in schools, ITEs, Polys and Unis. This includes in-person classes, group work and CCAs. We hope this will help return childhood and youth experiences to our young. Education is not the same without these activities.
Finally, team sports, of up to 10 vaccinated persons, can resume, but at selected venues and with pre-game testing. We hope this is just the start.
One more important update — a week ago, US FDA authorised the emergency use of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for children aged 5 to 11.
Our Expert Committee on COVID-19 Vaccination has studied and agreed with US FDA’s review. They will give their recommendations on vaccination of children aged 5 to 11 soon.
We hope to vaccinate children in this age group as soon as we can. This will give parents the added assurance and peace of mind.
We can ride the bicycle downslope safely, for both the young and old.