(To watch the full media briefing with sign language interpretation, click here.)

The Government will relax several social distancing measures on August 28, Secretary for Food & Health Prof Sophia Chan said today.

Prof Chan made the remarks at a media briefing this afternoon.

While the number of daily new cases has been gradually declining, the epidemic situation has still not completely stabilised, she said.

“We would therefore extend the existing social distancing measures under Cap 599F, Cap 599G and also Cap 599I for two more days until August 27.

“However, under the new normal, it is almost not possible for us to wait until there are no more local cases before relaxing the social distancing measures.

“Hence, unless there are drastic changes to the epidemic situation, we would issue new directions before Friday on the following areas: (1) to extend the dine-in services allowed to 9 pm; (2) to allow re-opening of scheduled premises including cinemas, beauty parlours and also some outdoor sports premises for activities involving little physical contact; and (3) to allow people not to wear masks in country parks and while doing exercise.

“Having regard to the benefits that exercising would bring to one’s physical and also mental well-being, we have also amended Cap 599I to include engaging in strenuous exercise in an outdoor place as a reasonable excuse for not wearing a mask so as to encourage the public to exercise more.”

Prof Chan reminded the public not to let their guard down during the fight against COVID-19 and maintain good personal and environmental hygiene.

She also encouraged members of the public to participate in the Universal Community Testing Programme, adding that the programme will help identify silent carriers and curb the spread of COVID-19.