A new bill, introduced to Parliament yesterday, plans to curb public drinking in Singapore.
Under the new bill, drinking in public places, including parks and common areas in Housing Board estates, will no longer be allowed after 22h30.
The proposed island-wide ban will last through the night till 07h00.
The Liquor Control (Supply and Consumption) Bill, introduced by Second Minister for Home Affairs S. Iswaran, will also stop retail shops from selling alcohol after 22h30.
There will be stricter rules for Little India and Geylang, which will be designated as Liquor Control Zones - places where there is higher risk of public disorder associated with excessive drinking.
In the Bill, those found guilty of drinking after 22h30 in a public place will face a fine of up to $1 000. A repeat offender may be jailed for up to three months. A shop which sells alcohol after permitted hours may get a fine not exceeding $10 000.
The tougher measures will be similar to the temporary rules put in place in Little India following the December 8, 2013 riot there.
Drinking is currently banned in public places in Little India from 06h00 on Saturdays, to 06h00 on Mondays, and also from 06h00 on the eve of public holidays, to 06h00 on the day after public holidays. Additionally, the retail sale of alcohol is banned from 20h00 till 0600 on weekends, and on the eve of public holidays and public holidays.
It is not currently known when the new bill will come into effect.
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