Reasons for Allowing Groups of Five Unvaccinated Persons to Gather

81 Mr Seah Kian Peng asked the Minister for Culture, Community and Youth what are the reasons for allowing groups of five unvaccinated persons to gather.

Mr Edwin Tong Chun Fai: From 1 February 2022, Religious Organisations (ROs) must implement Vaccination-Differentiated Safe Management Measures (VDS) for all congregational and worship services at places of worship, which can involve up to 1,000 worshippers at a time, subject to Safe Management Measures and the safe capacity of the premises.

Under these prevailing measures, ROs can allow one group of no more than five persons at any one time to conduct private worship in the premises, regardless of vaccination status. They cannot mingle with other worshippers who are taking part in activities subjected to VDS, such as congregational worship services. Allowing unvaccinated individuals to gather only in very small groups reduces the risk of widespread transmission of the virus and severe health outcomes for the unvaccinated.

Faith communities support the national stance for vaccination and recognise the need to adopt VDS measures in religious activities in order to keep congregants safe. ROs have made important adjustments to their religious worship and activities to accommodate these measures. We appreciate the continued support from our ROs.