It is heartbreaking to note that some Singaporeans are not taking seriously the safe-distancing measures in place during this month-long closure of non-essential workplaces. 

The authorities issued more than 7,000 written advisories to the public on Tuesday (April 7), the first day of movement restrictions to curb the spread of Covid-19.

The Government has raised awareness of these measures via WhatsApp and other social media platforms. But some among us may still mistakenly believe that Covid-19 “will not happen to us”.

The number of Covid-19 cases in Singapore worries me, having crossed the 1,000 mark last week.

If the virus is not contained and the number increases further, how is our healthcare system going to cope? How many more jobs will be lost? How many more months will we take to bring things back to normal?

So, how do we get people to comply with the rules for the sake of fellow Singaporeans?  

I believe a short video, an animation film or pictures showing the consequences if we flout the rules will help.

We need to show Singaporeans the worst-case scenario — such as when hospitals are overwhelmed and have to turn patients away — if Covid-19 is not brought under control in our small island nation.

This will wake more people up to the dangers of the disease. 

Also, feature appeals to stay home from healthcare workers who work tirelessly round-the-clock. 

Lastly, tap our network of Public Warning System sirens, followed by frequent public announcements on radio and television. Such announcements will signal a sense of urgency, as there may still be a small segment of Singaporeans, such as seniors, who do not own a smartphone.  

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