Relocation Tips May 03, 2024 0 views

Cultural Etiquette: What Not to Do in Singapore

🙅‍♂️ Don’t Litter or Jaywalk

Singapore’s reputation as a clean city didn’t happen by accident—it was built on strict rules and public cooperation.

Littering can result in hefty fines (from $300 to $1,000+) and corrective work orders.
Jaywalking across roads without using designated crossings is illegal and taken seriously.

Tip: Always look for a pedestrian crossing, even if the road looks quiet.

🚬 Don’t Smoke Just Anywhere

Singapore has strict anti-smoking laws:

Smoking is prohibited in most public places, including bus stops, parks, and void decks.
You can only smoke in designated smoking areas, usually marked with yellow boxes.
Disposing of cigarette butts improperly is treated as littering.

🤳 Don’t Take Photos Without Permission

While it’s tempting to snap shots of beautiful temples or colorful festivals:

Always ask before photographing people, especially in religious or cultural settings.
Avoid taking photos in government buildings, immigration counters, or military zones.

🍽️ Don’t Be Disrespectful Around Food and Dining

In a multi-religious society:

Don’t bring pork to halal establishments or beef to Hindu ones.
Avoid using your left hand when eating or passing food to someone in Malay or Indian communities—it’s considered unclean.
Don’t leave your tray behind at hawker centres—clearing your tray is now required by law.

👣 Don’t Wear Shoes Inside Certain Places

If you’re entering:

A home (especially Asian families)
A temple, mosque, or certain indoor areas of cultural importance

Always remove your shoes.

Tip: If you see a row of shoes at the entrance, follow suit.

🤐 Don’t Criticize Religion or Politics Publicly

Singapore enforces strong laws to maintain racial and religious harmony:

Avoid making jokes, derogatory comments, or online posts targeting religion or race.
Be mindful when discussing local politics or laws—what may be casual opinion elsewhere could be seen as offensive here.

🛑 Don’t Chew Gum in Public (Yes, Really!)

This is Singapore’s most famous rule:

Chewing gum import and sale is banned (except therapeutic dental or nicotine gum).
While chewing isn't illegal, spitting gum or improper disposal will get you fined.

❤️ Bonus Tip: Be Considerate on Public Transport

Let others alight before you board.
Don’t take up reserved seats unless you qualify.
Avoid loud phone conversations or playing music without headphones.

Respecting these unspoken rules earns you smiles from locals.

✅ Final Words: When in Doubt, Be Respectful

Singaporeans value order, cleanliness, and mutual respect. When in doubt, watch what locals do, observe signs, and err on the side of caution. It’s one of the safest and most welcoming countries in the world—as long as you respect its social code.