Common Etiquettes in Singapore

Even though Singapore is a small island city in Southeast Asia, you can call it as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. As a perfect amalgamation of modernized buildings and breathtaking natural beauty, it is an ideal place to spend your holiday. This is why thousands of people from around the world choose Singapore as their holiday destination.

Moreover, Singapore is also a global financial center, which brings a lot of businessmen to the city regularly. While the city may look modern and westernized, there are several common etiquette associated with the people and culture in Singapore. Tourists and businessmen visiting Singapore should know about them so as not to do something that is offensive to the people of Singapore.

Cultural Etiquette in Singapore

Singapore is a multi-ethnic city where you would find people of Chinese, Malay and Indian origins. Each of these communities has different cultural etiquette. Here we will take a look at them.

Communication:  Mandarin Chinese, Malay, English and Tamil are the official languages of Singapore. You would find Singaporeans to be soft-spoken. They would not directly look into the eye while speaking, especially if they are talking to a person of higher stature. This is considered to be an act of respect.

Apart from this, the people in Singapore think before they talk or reply. Don’t be surprised if the person pauses for 10-15 seconds before replying to a question you have asked. Make sure that you don’t interrupt their silence.

Body Language: Your body language plays an important role when it comes to communication. Do not touch anyone’s head, even children, when you meet them. That’s because Singaporeans believe that head is a sacred place and should not be touched. On the other hand, you must refrain from pointing your toes or feet at anyone while sitting. This is considered an act of disrespect as feet are believed to be dirty. A few other etiquettes that you must remember when it comes to body language include:

• Hitting your fist into your cupped hand is considered to be an obscene gesture.
• Yawning openly, blowing your nose and clearing your throat in public are considered to be rude.
• Refrain from putting your hands on your hips while talking to a person, unless you want to offend him or her.
• If you want to call someone from a distance, do so by keeping your palm down and extending your hand. Flutter your finger lightly while doing so. Never point your fingers at anyone as this is considered extremely rude.

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Introduction and Greetings: Singaporeans have deep respect for their elderly, and It is important to acknowledge and introduce elderly people in a room first. When it comes to greeting people, shaking hands is most common, especially in business meetings. It is also ok for men and women to shake hands however the men should always wait for women to extend their hands first. If they do not, it is best to greet them with a bow. The handshake need not be firm like it is expected in western countries.

Gift Giving: Singaporeans have some gift giving etiquette that you must follow if you are giving a gift to someone there. It is best to avoid giving gifts like handkerchiefs, knives, clocks, scissors, straw sandals, cutting utensils, etc. The gifts should be wrapped in yellow, red and pink colors and wrapping paper of white, black, and blue colors should be avoided as they are considered to be mourning colors. If you receive a gift from someone, do not open it in their presence. Gifts should be opened only after the guests leave. Avoid gifting flowers as they are associated with sickness and funeral. Whatever gift you give, ensure that the wrapping is elaborate.

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Business Etiquette in Singapore

While the cultural etiquette is something that you need to know when you are visiting Singapore as a tourist, there are some etiquettes that you have to know and follow if you are going to this city-state for business purposes.

• Punctuality is considered to be extremely important for Singaporeans. They consider arriving late  an insult. Hence, you must make it a point to arrive on time for business meetings. If you are going to be late, make it a point to inform beforehand.
• If you are planning to have a business meeting in Singapore, it is best to make your appointment weeks or even months before actually visiting the place.
• Carry as many visiting card as possible with you. Hand over your business cards when you meet the professionals for a meeting.
• When you receive a visiting card, accept it with both hands and treat it with respect. Read it first and place it in the visiting card holder carefully. Do not slide it into a drawer or write on it carelessly. This is considered to be an insult by Singaporeans.
• Always begin your meeting with small talk. You may be asked about your family and such other personal things while getting to know you before the conversation turns into business.
• If you are invited for a business lunch or dinner, accept it, and let your host decide the menu. It is imperative that you host a similar lunch or dinner, later.

Dining Etiquette

As dining is an integral part of any culture, having proper dining etiquette is essential. Some key points for dining etiquette in Singapore:

• Wait to be told where to sit at a table; there may be a seating hierarchy.
• Allow elders to start eating before you begin.
• Use a spoon and fork for most meals; knife usage is less common.
• In group dining, serving yourself from shared plates is acceptable.
• Slurping noodles loudly can be seen as a sign you enjoy the meal.
• Finishing all the food on your plate is not expected or required.
• Tipping is not a common practice.

Public Behavior

There are some public behavior norms that foreign visitors should keep in mind:

• Singapore takes littering very seriously; there are fines for littering and even gum chewing
• Jaywalking is illegal. You should only use crossroads at designated spots.
• Speaking loudly or arguing in public is frowned upon.
• Physical affection between couples has modest limits.
• Queuing properly for your turn is expected.

Attitudes Towards Foreigners

While relatively welcoming to foreigners, some common views include:

• Westerners are seen as more loud, blunt, and informal.
• The stereotype of Americans being arrogant exists for some
• An ideal foreigner is one who respects local culture and blends in.
• Speaking English is seen as a sign of upper-class status.
• Heavy foreign accents may be difficult for locals to understand.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of clothing is appropriate to wear in Singapore?

Singapore has a tropical climate and is very hot and humid year-round. Locals usually wear light, loose-fitting clothing that covers most of the body, despite the heat. Tank tops and very short shorts or skirts are frowned upon. Business attire is relatively formal and conservative.

Men wear long pants and a button-down shirt, while women wear below-the-knee skirts and modest tops. Singapore also has many places of worship with dress code rules; knees and shoulders must be covered. Having clothing you can layer and take on or off is key for dealing with the intensity of Singapore’s climate.

Should I tip at restaurants and taxis?

Tipping is not expected or a common practice in Singapore. Most restaurants already include a 10% service charge in the bill. An additional tip is welcome for exceptional service, but not necessary otherwise. Similarly, for taxis, simply round up the fare to the nearest dollar or two, but do not feel obligated to tip 15-20%. However, high-end restaurants and hotels will graciously accept tips for porters, housekeepers, and concierge staff. But again, there is no need to tip extensively in most day-to-day exchanges.

Is English commonly spoken in Singapore?

Yes, English is one of Singapore’s official languages and is widely spoken as a common language, bridging the various ethnic communities. Most locals speak English at an advanced level, as Singapore’s education system heavily emphasizes English language skills.

You can easily get by only speaking English for everything from ordering food and asking directions to shopping and conducting business meetings. Those working in hospitality also learn key English phrases. That said, certain concepts, jokes, slang terms, etc. may still get lost across cultures and languages. Patience goes a long way.

How accessible is Singapore for travelers with disabilities?

Singapore has stringent regulations around disabled access in public areas and newly built infrastructure. Sidewalks have curb cuts, trains and some buses have wheelchair access, traffic lights have sound indicators, and public restrooms accommodate disabilities. However, challenges can still arise in old buildings lacking elevators and other amenities.

Singapore’s terrain is also generally very flat, which helps mobility. By explaining your needs politely, most locals will be happy to assist. Showing photos or writing requests down can also help. Singapore aims to be disability-friendly, but there is still progress to be made compared to some countries.

Are there any unique laws or forbidden items for visitors?

Singapore is known for order, cleanliness, and low crime rates – achieved through very strict laws and harsh punishments if caught breaking them. The use of illegal drugs leads to severe criminal penalties and possibly execution in Singapore. Other prohibited activities include spitting, chewing gum, smoking in public places, littering, jaywalking, overstaying visas, etc.

Singapore also limits the import of certain goods for visitors like chewing tobacco, firecrackers, pornography, electronics that could broadcast political content, medication containing controlled substances, and more. Check regulations and declare prohibited items to avoid serious incidents during your visit.

Final Words

These are some of the common etiquettes that you should follow when in Singapore. While these are not legally binding, following these would mean that you respect the culture of Singapore.