Editorial | Hong Kong’s easing of rules on travel a hopeful sign
- What is important now is that all of us, wherever we are, do not let our guard down if we wish to return to some form of normal life
The easing of travel restrictions announced by the government on Monday marked another milestone in the battle against the Covid-19 pandemic.
The long-awaited quarantine waivers for Hongkongers returning from more mainland provinces as well as travelling to and from Singapore would not have been possible without concerted efforts to contain infections. Hopefully, the new arrangements can be extended to more places in the region and even beyond.
That it has taken so long for the Hong Kong-Singapore air travel bubble to take off underlines the challenges in balancing public health protection with economic activities. The move, first mooted in November, was put on hold after Hong Kong was hit with yet another community outbreak.
Last week, an announcement of the relaunch was also reportedly called off amid concerns over new cases among migrant workers in Singapore.
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The Hong Kong government has unilaterally made full vaccination – those having taken two shots at least 14 days before travel – a mandatory requirement for residents wanting to visit Singapore. The additional safeguard, it says, can offer more health protection.