With Chinese New Year approaching, many, particularly the Chinese community, were relieved at the standard operating procedures(SOP) allowed by the government this year after they were announced last week.

There are fewer restrictions this year as compared to last year where a limited number of only 15 family members living within a 10km radius were allowed to gather. 

Here are the procedures for reunion meals and house visits during the Chinese New Year celebrations, which begin on January 31 and end on February 15(Chap Goh Mei) :

1. There will be no limit in the number of people who can gather for reunion dinners.



2. Open houses are prohibited. However, house visits are allowed.



3. Formal Chinese New Year dinners may be conducted by invitation only, with a capacity of half the regular event area; all attendees must be completely vaccinated.



4. Dance troupes of lions and dragons will be permitted to perform under certain conditions, including the wearing of masks and the practice of social distance.



5. On the 1st, 2nd, and 15th of February, devotees may visit temples to worship.



6. On February 8 and 9, Bai Tian Gong (Prayers to the Jade Emperor) rituals will be permitted in temples and houses.

According to Transport Minister Wee Ka Siong, the SOPs were approved by the Covid-19 Quartet ministers meeting and the Ministry of Health before being presented to the Cabinet.

“We understand that in the past, we had to stay at home. We could only celebrate Chinese New Year at home, but this year, we can celebrate Chinese New Year, but we have to comply with the SOPs,” he added at the press conference when announcing the SOPs.