COVID-19: Contractual Obligations in a Global Pandemic

by Clement Ee, Private Practice Lawyer, 3:16 Church Pastor, co-founder of non-profit organisation

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about unprecedented disruptions to the lives of many Singaporeans and Singapore businesses. To address these new challenges, which include fragmented supply chains and restricted movements across borders, the Government has implemented temporary measures in the form of the COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) Act.

However, navigating through the measures, keeping up with the changes as they develop, and understanding how they apply may prove even more daunting.

Clement Ee, a private practice lawyer and consultant from boutique full-service law firm Wong Alliance LLP, conducted a legal clinic titled COVID-19: Contractual Obligations in a Global Pandemic on 15 May 2020 over Zoom. Clement, whose practice includes advising and drafting corporate contracts, took 18 companies through the provisions of the COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) Act that relates to contractual obligations, and explained the various legal reliefs available when one is unable to fulfil existing contractual obligations.

Clement is also a pastor at 3:16 Church. Being a bi-vocational pastor, he also helped business owners view contractual obligations from a Biblical perspective, and shared Luke 4:18-19 to challenge participants to “be” hope and freedom. In the business world, this means resisting the temptation to withhold payment or avoid fulfilling contractual obligations even in the face of rising costs due to the COVID-19 outbreak (Prov 3:27-28), and proactively demonstrating grace to those who are unable to fulfil their contractual obligations (Heb 9:15).

Clement then ended with the assurances of Luke 12:31-32, that when we honour the Lord, He will honour us and will supply all of our needs, including those of our businesses.

Thank you, Clement, for guiding business owners in understanding the current legislation during these times of change.