COVID-19 has proved to be a brutal force for many businesses and that includes one of Singapore's most notable karaoke spots, Teo Heng KTV.

Singapore is slowly reopening its economy after almost two months in lockdown, with a select few businesses resuming operations. However, for the entertainment industry, which includes nightclubs and karaoke chains, reopening is still quite a long road ahead. 

After months of closure and no income, Teo Heng KTV has been forced to permanently close down 7 of its 14 outlets, including its very first branch in Singapore's Katong Shopping Centre. 

According to Shin Min Daily News, a Singapore-based Chinese evening newspaper, Jackson Teo, founder of Two Heng KTV,  "We are ready to consider closing half of the stores and retain half of the hope. If the [pandemic] is over in six months, we can continue to operate and make a comeback without losing our money."

The first Teo Heng KTV outlet opened 30 years ago, after Jackson Teo noticed "young people liked singing" when he was selling audio-visual equipment at the same location. 

However, even after shutting down half of its outlets, the karaoke chain still continues to do some good. Teo Heng KTV has reportedly donated 40 to 50 sets of couches, from their closed outlets to needy and elderly families across Singapore, according to a Facebook post made by a volunteer for the non-profit initiative, Keeping Hope Alive.

A frequent spot for many to laugh and enjoy with their friends, many were obviously saddened by Teo Heng KTV's closure of half its branches. Here are some social media users' reactions:

Cover image credit: Teo Heng Trading & KTV Studio Facebook Page