Outdoor mask wearing to become optional as more people allowed to work, gather

Up to 75% of the workforce can return to the office on 29 March.

"Wearing masks outdoors will now be optional," announced Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong in a speech on the COVID-19 situation in Singapore on 24 March 2022.

"This is because the risk of outdoor transmission is significantly lower. But indoors masks will still be mandatory," he continued.

In his speech, he announced the many ways Singapore will be easing its restrictions in the coming days, adding that the "Omicron wave has already crested."

To minimise transmission in outside settings, a safe distancing requirement of one meter per groups of unmasked people will be maintained.

More employees to return to the workplace

"We will allow up to 75% of employees who can work from home to return to their workplaces," Lee said.

Capacity limits for larger events, those with a gathering of 1,000 or more people, will also be eased to 75%.

Vaccinated people may gather in groups of 10, instead of the previous five.

Cross-border travel restrictions eased

Citing the small proportion of COVID-19 cases coming from arrivals from abroad compared to domestic transmissions, the prime minister said the Lion City is ready to open its borders.

"We will drastically streamline testing and quarantine requirements for travellers," Lee said.

He added that this will also allow more Singaporeans to travel abroad.

"This will re-connect Singapore to the world and give a much-needed boost to businesses, particularly tourism, it will help Singapore reclaim its position as a business and aviation hub," he said.  

These changes will take effect on 29 March 2022, Tuesday.