After the Singapore authorities called on malls to limit the number of people within the malls, many shopping malls have implemented measures to comply with the new regulations.
People once said that you need a passport when you’re in the west side of Singapore.
It’s no longer a joke because there’s now a checkpoint at Jurong Point (though passport is optional):
And IKEA Is No Different
On 27 Mar 2020, IKEA sent out a text message to its IKEA FAMILY members.
They highlighted that they have taken steps to apply social distancing measures “especially in our Restaurants, Bistros & Checkouts”.
They urge shoppers to shop online at their website and indicated that their stores are still open, albeit with a limit on daily visitors.
A quick check on their website reveals that IKEA Alexandra has stopped their shuttle bus services temporarily until 30 Apr 2020.
IKEA Tampines, however, did not indicate if they have stopped their shuttle bus services.
Limit On Shoppers Within IKEA Outlets
It was also indicated that shoppers who are looking to go shop physically at IKEA might be stopped at the entrance.
IKEA Alexandra, in particular, warned that they have reduced their maximum visitor capacity.
Visitors will only be allowed in when the capacity has reached an “acceptable level”.
In short, it’s like a parking lot. Cars can only go in when another car exit.
Shoppers are advised to keep their shopping to one hour.
Closing Of Play Areas, Småland & Prayer Rooms
It was announced that IKEA will also be closing their prayer rooms.
Småland, the area where parents can leave their kids in to play at while they enjoy some shopping time, will also be closed temporarily.
It was not indicated when it will be open for business again.
If you’ve been to IKEA restaurants (which you should, if not what have you been doing), you’d have noticed a play area where kids can have fun in while their parents eat.
These areas have been closed as well.
Government Advisory: Please Go Out Only If You Need To
The government has advised all Singaporeans to stay as home as much as possible, and only to go to the malls only if they really need to.
In official speak: Please defer all non-essential trips to the mall.
Basically, they’re saying if you’re not going to the mall to buy essential goods like food or shower foam, just stay home.
As much as possible, they’re asking you to order your food and groceries online.
And if you really have to go out, please remember to stick to safe distancing measures or you might just be fined.
You can do your part as a responsible citizen through helping out in contact tracing by downloading the TraceTogether app.
In the meantime, keep yourself updated by bookmarking MOH’s website here and registering for the Gov.sg’s WhatsApp service here.
