When visiting a new country, it is important to understand the customs and cultural practices of the locals. The last thing you want to do, of course, is make a mistake and offend the locals.
Singapore, as one of the centers of economic and social growth in Southeast Asia, is a city full of diversity. This city is often referred to as the “Cultural Melting Pot“ because various ethnicities, such as Chinese, Malays, Indians, and other ethnic groups coexist harmoniously.
Cultural heritage is an important part of Singapore’s identity. Cultural heritage reflects the way a person expresses his thoughts, beliefs, and way of life, including the customs and traditions that are upheld.
Therefore, for students and tourists who want to visit the land of Merlion, it is important to have cultural sensitivity. Respecting diversity in Singapore not only reflects politeness, but also shows respect for local values. Here are tips that can help you become a well-mannered and sociable tourist while in Singapore.
Popular Customs & Traditions in Singapore
When You’re Meeting Someone
- Avoid delays when planning a meeting with someone. Singaporeans uphold punctuality. You can be considered disrespectful if you’re late.
- Wear slightly more formal clothes when meeting someone for the first time. It will give a positive impression.
- When meeting Singaporeans, greet them by shaking their hands and bowing slightly.
- Show respect to older people, address them with respectful titles such as “Uncle” or “Aunt”
- Singaporeans can introduce themselves by giving you their abbreviated name or name in English, which is appropriate to use once they give you permission.
- Don’t touch anyone’s head, because many people consider it sacred.
When You’re Visiting Someone’s House
- If you visit someone’s house, take off your shoes at the door. In some Southeast Asian countries including Singapore, wearing footwear at home is impolite. The same applies if you visit a place of worship of several religions, take off your footwear and make sure your feet are clean.
- Put your feet on the floor, as your feet are considered unclean, and it is considered disrespectful if someone sees the soles of your feet.
When You’re Visiting a Restaurant
- When you’re at a restaurant, tipping isn’t the norm in Singapore. Most restaurants add the usual service by 10% in the bill, in which case, tipping is generally not recommended.
- Also avoid tipping at hawker centers and places.
- In addition to the places mentioned above, tipping is also completely prohibited at Changi Airport
- Casual clothing (shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops) is acceptable in most places in Singapore. However, bring formal attire and shoes for high-end restaurants.
When You’re Asking for Help
- When you need help from locals to find directions, make sure you don’t just use your index finger. Lift your entire finger or hand in the open position. It is considered more polite.
- Another thing to keep in mind is to use the phrases “Please”, “Sorry to disturb”, and “Thank you” when asking for any help.
When You’re Eating Food
- When eating with chopsticks, do not stick them standing on the rice bowl. It resembles a funeral ceremony and is considered to bring bad luck.
- The thing that needs to be considered besides that is the chewing sound. Try to chew food calmly and silently.
When You’re in Public Space
- Singaporeans value discipline more than anything else. They always queue up well and orderly for anything.
- Singapore is one of the cleanest countries in Asia and the world. So, when in you’re in public spaces, avoid littering. Bring a small bag for garbage or folding and keep the garbage in your pocket until you find a trash can to dispose it. Littering is a violation of the law.
- Engaging in fights or fighting between two or more people in a public place, such as streets, is a highly prohibited act and can be sanctioned legally.
- Do not urinate or spit in public places.
- Smoking in public places and areas with “No Smoking” signs is prohibited and can be subject to legal sanctions.
- When you cross, always use the zebra cross and follow the traffic lights. Also use sidewalks for pedestrians.
- Possession of chewing gum or trying to bring it to Singapore without a doctor’s prescription is strictly prohibited.
Singapore is a country that upholds harmony and diversity, not much different from Indonesia. With various ethnicities, cultures, and religions coexisting, the city provides a real example of tolerance and order.
Being a student tourist who appreciates the local culture is not only an ethical form, but also enriches your cultural and educational experience while exploring Singapore.
The Dimulti Educational Immersion Program is a transformative program that instills multicultural values in students. Through this educational journey, students not only enjoying a visit to various tourist destinations, but also getting the opportunity to explore their potential, grow confidence, get to know their interests and talents more deeply, and experience a dynamic and inspiring world-class educational atmosphere.
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