Singapore announces new criteria for coronavirus aid

By Rhany Chairunissa Rufinaldo

JAKARTA (AA) - Unemployed Singaporeans applying for government support amid economic difficulties caused by the novel coronavirus will have to prove that they have tried to find a job or take up training programs.

The Ministry for Social and Family Development on Tuesday announced new eligibility criteria for first-time applicants and current recipients of the COVID-19 Support Grant seeking an extension.

According to the new rules, applicants must have no more than one property and those unemployed must submit documents showing they made at least one job application in the last two months or sought training towards a new job.

The grant was first introduced in May to help unemployed permanent residents put on involuntary unpaid leave, as well as those suffering significant income loss due to the pandemic.

Last month, Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat announced the extension of the program until Dec. 31.

Successful applicants will be granted up to 800 Singapore dollars ($585) monthly for three months, according to the ministry.

It said first-time applicants who meet the current eligibility criteria may continue to apply for the grant until Sept. 30.