For example, it transferred migrant workers－particularly those working in essential services－from the dormitories to other areas, including Singapore Armed Forces camps, floating hotels and vacant public housing blocks.

In an address to the nation on April 21, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong gave a pledge to the families of infected migrant workers.

"We feel responsible for their (the workers') well-being. We will do our best to take care of their health, livelihoods and welfare here, to let them go home safe and sound to you," he said.
Agreements with China

When the outbreak emerged in China, Singapore was one of the first countries to respond to a request for personal protective equipment and other medical supplies. It also provided seed money for a humanitarian assistance fund launched by the Singapore Red Cross, which raised more than S$6 million in February alone.

The virtual Singapore-China Joint Meeting on COVID-19, held on April 1, revealed the extent of the close cooperation between the two governments.

Tay, from the SIIA, said, "It featured agreements to exchange views on control and treatment measures, and share good practices related to diagnostics and treatment.

"There was also an agreement to explore the joint research and development of medicines and vaccines.

"Beyond combating COVID-19, both sides agreed to ensure an unimpeded flow of necessary personnel, smooth and open air and sea freight links, and the integrity of supply chains. This is good for all of the region."

It is hoped that regular contact on a government-to-government level and between medical professionals can be maintained to make closer cooperation easier.

Tay added that both countries could work together to provide test kits and other medical supplies for developing countries in the region, while helping them address other issues.

"One avenue would be the establishment of the COVID-19 Response Fund, which was proposed during the ASEAN Plus Three Summit on April 14," he said.

ASEAN Plus Three is the cooperation mechanism between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and China, Japan and the Republic of Korea.

"Approaching cooperation with a spirit of altruism, in which results are more important than recognition and reciprocity, would ultimately help promote cooperation," Tay said.

"The two countries (Singapore and China) have been friends for many years and have gone through good times and difficult situations. This spirit of cooperation and friendship can be the foundation for cooperation at this time."