Singapore, officially the Republic of Singapore, and often referred to as the Lion City or the Little Red Dot, is a sovereign city-state in Southeast Asia, and the world’s only island city-state. Despite its small size, Singapore has a diversity of languages, religions, and cultures [2]. It is a conglomeration of Chinese (76%), Malay (15%) and Indian (6%) cultures. In the past, this racial mixture has lead to some conflict. However, today most Singaporeans enjoy racial harmony and national unity. Each group works hard to maintain its cultural traditions while building a modern, cohesive society [3].
Each Singaporean’s behaviors and attitudes are influenced by, among other things, his or her home language, and his religion. Singaporeans who speak English as their native language tend to lean toward Western culture, while those who speak Chinese as their native language tend to lean toward Chinese culture and Confucianism. Malay-speaking Singaporeans tend to lean toward Malay culture, which itself is closely linked to Islamic culture [2].
Because of a lot of different cultures, religions, and languages, in order to maintain order, they have to follow a lot of rules and have a strict etiquette.
Etiquette is a code of behavior that delineates expectations for social behavior according to contemporary conventional norms within a society, social class, or group [1].
As with any country throughout the world, there are multiple “Do’s and Don’ts” in Singapore that should be considered when visiting, either for leisure or business. When traveling with a spouse or engaging in cultural activities with a significant other, avoid public displays of affection and always remain calm, showing little to no emotion. Joking or being humorous should only be done if you know someone well and after building a solid relationship. To help build a good relationship, when invited to a house for a party or gathering, always bring a gift, but ensure it is small enough not to be considered a bribe [4].
Throughout Singapore, Western clothing is very common, with the casual dress being popular, but there are some considerations to take into account. For men in business, always come prepared with a white shirt, standard tie, and trousers, but leave the jacket at home. For women in business, consider wearing a blouse with sleeves and a formal skirt or trouser suit [4].
The list of the most common rules and etiquette [3]:
Meeting and Greeting
- Shake hands with everyone present at a business meeting or social occasion. Shake hands again when leaving. Your handshake should be firm.
- Singaporeans may bow slightly as they shake your hand. Many Westerners are generally taller than Singaporeans so it would be polite to give a small bow. A slight bow for Chinese or older people is polite.
Body Language
- Never touch a person’s or child’s head. The head is considered sacred.
- The foot is considered the lowest part of the body and is thought to be unclean. The foot should never be used to point at someone, and you should never show the bottom of your feet. Tapping your foot or fidgeting your legs denotes feebleness and lack of interest. When crossing your legs, do so only by placing one knee over the other.
Corporate Culture
- Westerners are expected to be punctual for social occasions and business meetings. Call if you are delayed. Tardiness is viewed as a sign of disrespect.
- Business cards are exchanged upon being introduced. Exchange business cards with both hands after you are introduced.
- The government finances many of the large corporations in Singapore. This bureaucratic system is known for its high efficiency and corruption-free business style. Western-style management is evident in large firms managed by Singaporeans.
- Personal contacts are important in business. It takes several years to develop business relationships. Take time to know people before discussing business.
- Singaporeans tend to get right down to business in meetings. Singaporeans are fast-paced and can make decisions quickly.
- You are expected to deliver reports, correspondence, packages, etc. when promised.
- Always talk straight and get right to the point with Singaporeans. You can be direct when dealing with issues of money.
As you could understand, there are a lot of different rules in Singapore. Unfortunately, there are a lot of those rules that may seem “shocking” for a European people. Here are some of them.
Chewing gum is banned in Singapore so leave it at home when packing your bags. Importation of chewing gums into the country, even if it is not for trading, is illegal. The current set of regulations does not have provisions for carrying gum for personal use. Improper disposal of gum and carrying large quantities of the banned product will cost a hefty fine of up to $1000 for first-time offenders [5].
Singapore is bent on maintaining its reputation for being impeccably clean, with an active campaign against littering and stringent enforcement in place. First-time offenders who throw small items like cigarette butts or candy wrappers are fined $300. Those who throw out bigger items like drink cans or bottles are considered defiant and are required to appear before the court. The punishment usually involves a Corrective Work Order (CWO), where the offenders clean up a specified area while wearing a bright luminous green vest [5].
Smoking is prohibited in certain areas in Singapore. The smoking prohibition currently covers all indoor places where the public congregates. The ban was revised in 2009 to include indoor public places that are not air-conditioned, such as shopping centers, offices, and shops. Outdoor public facilities, like fitness areas, sports courts, and playgrounds, were also included in the extension. In 2013, the ban extended even further to include multi-purpose halls, pedestrian overhead bridges, covered walkways and linkways, hospital outdoor compounds, and a five-meter perimeter around bus shelters. The extension also includes common areas of residential buildings [5].
Homosexual Relations. The legislation on “Outrages on Decency” criminalizes same-sex relations. This law used to be under the umbrella of “unnatural sex” or sex “against the order of nature.” Violators of this law can cost the offender up to two years in prison [5].
Summing up all the information, a very strict and at the same time very clean and disciplined country appears in the mind. But these rules and this lifestyle, in general, is definitely not for everyone.
Bibliography:
[1] “Etiquette” — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Etiquette
[2] “Singapore” — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Singapore
[3] “Singapore” — http://www.ediplomat.com/np/cultural_etiquette/ce_sg.htm
[4] “Guide To Singapore – Etiquette, Customs, Culture & Business” — http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/guide-to-singapore-etiquette-customs-culture-business.html
[5] “Singapore: Laws To Know Before You Go” — http://www.goabroad.com/articles/study-abroad/singapore-laws-to-know-before-you-go
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