Further Extension of Duration of Alternative Arrangements for Conduct of Meetings

On 6 April 2021, the Ministry of Law announced the extension of the duration of the COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) (Alternative Arrangements for Meetings for Companies, Variable Capital Companies, Business Trusts and Debenture Holders) Order 2020 (the “Meetings Order”) beyond 30 June 2021. This will provide entities with greater legal certainty to plan their meetings, and the option to hold virtual meetings to minimise physical interactions, amid the continuing COVID-19 situation.

The Ministry of Law had earlier announced that the Meetings Orders would apply for the period starting on 27 March 2020 and ending on 30 June 2021. The Meetings Order will now extend beyond 30 June 2021, until it is revoked or amended by the Ministry of Law. Accordingly, until such time, issuers may continue to utilise the Checklist issued by ACRA, MAS and SGX RegCo to guide entities on the conduct of their general meetings.

To provide certainty to entities organising meetings, the Ministry of Law will give at least 6 months’ advance notice before the alternative arrangements cease to be available. This is to cater to entities who have relied on the Meetings Order to make early preparations for meetings, before the end date is announced.

Please click on the following links for more information:  

• Ministry of Law press release (6 April 2021) 

• COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) (Alternative Arrangements for Meetings for Companies, Variable Capital Companies, Business Trusts, Unit Trusts and Debenture Holders

   (PDF, 34KB)

• Checklist on the conduct of General Meetings during Elevated Safe Distancing Period