KTVs, Nightclubs, and Karaoke Lounges to Resume Operations
SINGAPORE: In a significant move following the relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions, the government announced that all nightlife businesses, including nightclubs, discotheques, and karaoke outlets, will be permitted to fully reopen starting from April 19, 2022. This decision follows a joint statement from the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
To ensure the safety of patrons, nightlife venues will be required to implement the same safety measures as those in place for food and beverage (F&B) outlets, retail liquor establishments, and live performances. Notably, patrons at venues where dancing is allowed must provide a negative Antigen Rapid Test (ART) result, which must be taken no more than 24 hours before their visit. The test must be supervised by a Ministry of Health-approved provider, either in person or remotely.
Additionally, all indoor spaces will enforce mandatory mask-wearing. Group sizes will be capped at 10 fully vaccinated individuals, and safe distancing of at least 1 metre must be maintained between groups or individuals when masks are off.
For large events with over 1,000 attendees, capacity will be limited to 75%, with no requirement for safe distancing when masks are worn. Smaller venues with fewer than 1,000 people will not have any capacity limits.
The government has warned that businesses failing to comply with these measures may face penalties, including Notices of Composition (NOC) and closure orders. Enforcement agencies will monitor compliance to ensure the safety of all patrons and staff.
