After 2 years (though it may seem much longer), nightlife is finally allowed to resume in Singapore. While some nightlife operators had transited to F&B or other revenue models (Zouk’s spin sessions were a hit with spin enthusiasts), others had shuttered their doors as they weathered the brunt of the pandemic.
In January 2021, Teo Heng, a beloved family KTV chain announced their (temporary) closure. Some outlets remained open with renegotiated rents and transited to “Work, Chill & Dine” packages where the public can book the former KTV rooms for working, hanging out and dining under the prevailing safe management measures.
Thankfully, from 19 April 2022, all nightlife businesses (including bars, pubs, karaoke establishments, discotheques and nightclubs) will be permitted to fully reopen.
Clubbing Will Require Additional Safe Management Measure
Under this reopening, nightlife businesses need to adhere to the same safe management measures as prevailing ones for F&B establishments, retail liquor establishments, and live performances, where applicable.
Additionally, for nightclubs, discotheques or places where dancing among patrons is intended, an additional measure of negative Antigen Rapid Test (ART) result is required before entering the premises. This ART must be supervised by an MOH-approved test provider, either in-person or remotely. The COVID-19 test will be valid for 24 hours from the time of the test result and is only necessary for the patron, not visitors or employees. The patron must get tested before the start of his/her visit; and at most 24 hours before the end of the attendance at the event or activity
While this is an additional measure specific for dancing among patrons, it does spell a ray of hope for nightclubs which have been shuttered for many months. As the onus is on the patron to take the test, there is no additional incurred cost for clubbing businesses, aside from manpower to conduct the entry checks (which could be done by the bouncers).
Zouk, the grand dame of Singapore’s clubbing scene has announced its return on 20 April 2022.
KTVs/ Karaoke Lounges To Resume
Likewise, KTVs stand to benefit from the resumption of nightlife. The resumption of vocalisation activities on 29 March 2022 already boded well for family KTVs as singing is allowed to resume. The 19 April 2022 resumption of nightlife is an additional assurance for KTVs to restart their operations, albeit with the prevailing safe management measures.
Teo Heng, one of the larger family KTV chains, have announced their return on 19 April 2022 at their Suntec City, Causeway Point, J Cube and Star Vista outlets
The OG Of Nightlife: Pasar Malams
Perhaps the OG of nightlife, pasar malams (or night markets) are also making a reappearance after a long hiatus. According to Today, the price of renting a stall at the Geylang Serai’s Ramadan bazaar is between S$15,000 and S$21,000 for F&B stalls and S$5,000 to S$12,000 for non-F&B stalls. As these prices are determined by bidding, it reflects the pent-up demand for pasar malam businesses.
Likewise, pasar malam in neighbourhood estates will also resume. The Ang Mo Kio pasar malam is already in operation as of 9 April 2022.
Other-Related Performance Arts And Businesses May Finally See A Turnaround
While the nightlife sector may seem like a relatively small portion of Singapore’s economy, the truth is that it does affect the livelihood of many people, even for those who deem nightlife as unsavoury.
The resumption of nightlife means a resumption of live gigs for performers. Musicians, DJs, event hosts, other performers and their supporting crew such as lighting technicians, sound technicians have been hard-pressed during the pandemic to continue their passions. Some may have transited out of the industry while others make a living via the gig economy.
The truth is that live performances are a major source of revenue for these artists and their supporting crews. Hopefully, 2022 is the year where we would also see the return of the company dinner and dance, live concerts and even the getai.
Read Also: Why 2022 May Be A Good Year For Gig Workers To Consider Switching To Full-Time Employment
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