Singaporeans in Shanghai getting help on essential items, food: MFA

Staff Writer
·Editorial team
·2 min read
People pass edible oil over the barriers at a street market under lockdown amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, in Shanghai, China April 13, 2022. REUTERS/Aly Song
People pass edible oil over the barriers at a street market under lockdown in Shanghai amid the COVID-19 pandemic. (PHOTO: Reuters)

SINGAPORE — Singaporeans in locked down Shanghai have been receiving help from the Singapore Consulate-General amid a surge in the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a media statement on Wednesday (13 April), a Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) spokesperson said the Singapore Consulate-General in Shanghai has been reaching out to Singaporeans during the lockdown in Shanghai and is in touch with the local authorities.

The Consulate-General has been helping Singaporeans in the Chinese city to source for essential supplies or replenish medication, send food packs to those who are unable to obtain food on their own, and facilitate exit permits for Singaporeans to return to Singapore for urgent reasons.

“Singaporeans who can still access delivery services may try purchasing essential supplies through online applications and participating in group buys within their residential compounds. They may also seek assistance through their neighbourhood residence committees,” MFA said.

The statement comes as Shanghai continues to maintain its draconian two-week lockdown with millions of residents unable to leave their homes and workers stuck in their workplaces. While the authorities have been sending food and other necessities to residents, many have complained that the supplies have been poorly organised and erratic.

The local authorities have eased restrictions in the past few days to allow a number of residents out of their homes, and some markets and pharmacies to reopen.

MFA said Singaporeans can refer to the relevant Shanghai authority’s official WeChat account for information on available vendors for supplies. Those who are unable to obtain essential supplies can contact the Consulate-General for help.

While the Consulate-General remains under lockdown, MFA said Singaporeans in Shanghai who require consular assistance may reach the Consulate-General via the emergency hotline +86 138 0194 9439 or email address singcg_sha@mfa.sg. Singaporeans can also approach the 24-hour MFA Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/8855.

MFA urges all Singaporeans who are currently in Shanghai to e-register with MFA at https://eregister.mfa.gov.sg/ if they have not already done so.

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