Singapore PM Lee Hsien Loong shows empathy in plea to seniors

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong appealed today to older Singaporeans to stay at home for their own safety during the "circuit breaker" period.

The elderly are more vulnerable to COVID-19. It is a “serious matter” if they contract the disease and the "chances of dying are much higher", Mr Lee said in a video posted on his Facebook page, Channel News Asia reports.

Lee said: "I want to make a special appeal to older Singaporeans. I am one of you, so I know how you feel. When we are cooped up at home, we get restless and frustrated. We want to meet our friends, visit our grandchildren, stretch our legs, and resume our familiar routines – qigong sessions, karaoke groups, hanging out for kopi or a beer with friends. But please understand: We are telling you to stay at home for your own safety. Older people are more vulnerable to the virus. If we catch COVID-19, it is a serious matter. Our chances of dying are much higher, and if we get infected and spread the virus to our friends around our age, or bring the virus back home to our families, then, we put them in grave danger. 

"So please stay home. Use this chance to spend more time with your family, or watch your favourite TV programmes. If you need anything from outside, ask others to get it for you. If you have really no choice but to go out for food or necessities, make sure you wear a mask, and stay a safe distance away from everyone else. Do not linger and do not dawdle – come home once you have completed your errand.''