Poh Li San on Singapore’s COVID-19 response

Singapore must always be better prepared for the next crisis, said MP Poh Li San. Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday (Mar 21), she said Singapore cannot be totally dependent only on a task force to resolve problems during a pandemic. “We must look into preparing Singaporeans to manage daily concerns on the ground,” she said. Ms Poh pointed out that there are many groups of Singaporeans who made significant contributions during the pandemic. She highlighted the role of the military and police in containing the surge of COVID-19 cases in the migrant worker dormitories. She stressed the need to attract good people to join and maintain excellence in these services. She also noted the role of grassroots workers and volunteers, and stressed the need to continue having such support. Ms Poh also highlighted the need to better support Singaporeans who have been disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. One group is those who suffered permanent injuries after taking the mRNA vaccines. She urged the Government to look into ways to assist them. Another group is workers and companies in the construction sector. She hopes the Government will try to provide even more assistance to local construction companies during the vital recovery phase. Ms Poh hopes Singaporeans who have saved others from COVID-19 are celebrated and will continue to serve the country, while the needs of those who suffered hardship will be addressed.