Thread by @imnormgoh

Now, I understand that everyone is talking about the total lockdown and here’s the thing.

There is no need to rush to supermarkets to stock up food or toilet papers. These are essential services that will stay open.

We don’t need new clusters from huge queues at supermarkets.

Secondly, I was hoping that the Prime Minister would announce the total lockdown live instead of press statements.

You need some sense of urgency and empathy, at the same time give reassurances. The press statement itself is not helping.

Thirdly, address the shortcomings and concerns. As major economic sectors will be shut down, people who work on day jobs will have a shock, without any pay.

The total lockdown announcement without remedial support and assistance being rolled out at the same time. Wrong move.

I would've expected that the government to be well prepared after one year.

With a total lockdown, the crisis communications strategic plan should kick in immediately, the planning and dissemination of internal and external information to the public.

Work closely with the press, not shutting down the line of accessing information and the government can tap on the media to provide sufficient public information.

In the midst of the total lockdown, we have to get as many people tested as possible, mass screening is crucial.

Have a simple system to implement, similar to the New Zealand’s Tier Alert System, just four levels.

Singapore employs DORSCON system - Green, Yellow, Orange and Red. Just four colours to identify them.