Singapore
Singapore
This guide is packed with useful information for anyone preparing to move to Singapore.
To enjoy a safe and comfortable life in this vibrant country – where stunning cityscapes meet diverse cultures – it’s essential to understand the local rules first.
In this column, we’ll share key regulations you need to know, along with practical tips for everyday living.
Use this as your starting point for an exciting new chapter in Singapore!
Singapore is a multiracial country where roughly 74% of the population is ethnic Chinese, about 13% Malay, and about 9% Indian.
The official languages are English, Chinese, Malay, and Tamil, but in everyday conversation, “Singlish” is widely used—a form of English mixed with Chinese, Malay, and local dialects. Due to its uniqueness, even if you do understand English, you may find it difficult to understand in the beginning.
Expressions such as “lah,” added at the end of a sentence for emphasis, and “aiyoh,” used to express surprise or dissatisfaction, are typical examples of Singlish. It may take some time to get used to its unique pronunciation and grammar, but once you begin to understand it, you will likely find it both interesting and nuanced.
Singapore is home to many religions and cultures, including Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, and Taoism. As a result, everyday communication naturally calls for respect toward others’ religious and cultural backgrounds and sensitivity to the time, place, and occasion.
For example, many Malays are Muslim, and it is common for them to wear the hijab and clothing that covers the body except for the face and hands. With this cultural background in mind, it is advisable to avoid clothing that exposes too much skin when interacting with them.
Although Singapore is often seen as a culture that values punctuality and strict time‑keeping, in practice, the level of flexibility can vary depending on the individual and situation.
In communication, there is a general preference for conveying key points concisely. Especially in business and the workplace, a polite attitude that is mindful of hierarchy, and showing respect toward superiors and senior colleagues, are often valued. Being aware of these points will help you build trust locally.
In Singapore, owning a car is very expensive, creating a high barrier to car ownership. However, you can travel around easily as public transportation there is highly developed. The main modes of transportation are: MRT (subway), public buses, regular taxis, and private‑hire cars booked via ride‑hailing apps (similar to Uber).
The trains are kept clean and are safe, even for solo travellers. During rush hour, trains run at 2–4-minute intervals, so waiting times are short. It is widely used as an everyday way to get around.
Fares start at around 1 Singapore dollar (SGD), with prepaid e‑money such as the “EZ‑Link Card” or “NETS FlashPay” – available as convenient payment methods, in addition to most credit cards.
Alternatively, you may choose to travel using the public buses. The fares for buses increase according to distance travelled but are reasonable at around $2 per trip (this amount differs depending on distance and transfers). If you use the same prepaid card, you can make up to five transfers on a single journey.
Here’s another tip for buses! When you see the bus approaching the stop, do raise your hand to flag down the bus! Otherwise, the bus may not stop for you, and you will have to wait for the next bus. Also, do note that some buses do not have onboard announcements, hence it is advisable to check which stop you would like to alight using bus arrival apps such as “SG NextBus” (also great for checking bus arrival timings!) and press the “Bus Stopping” bell accordingly in advance.
On days when you are in a hurry (or just looking for some convenience), taxis are also a great way to get around as well! The starting fare is about 5 SGD. You will see taxis in various colours, including red, blue, black, and silver. Black and sometimes silver “premium” taxis cost about 1.5 times more than regular taxis but are ideal for important business occasions.
Fares vary depending on the time of day and boarding location. During peak hours (weekdays 6:00–9:29, weekends and holidays 10:00–13:59) and evenings (17:00–23:59 every day), there is a 25% surcharge, and during the late‑night hours (0:00–5:59) a 50% surcharge applies. There are also location surcharges of 3–8 SGD when boarding in certain areas such as the city center or Changi Airport.
In Southeast Asia, the ride‑hailing app “Grab” is widely used. If you register your credit card in advance, payment can be completed easily within the app. If you pay in cash, note that drivers may not have change, so keep coins and small bills on hand.
It is standard practice to open and close the doors yourself when getting in and out, and seat belts are mandatory. Do note that eating and drinking in the vehicle are prohibited as well.
Singapore, often called “the cleanest country in the world,” is known for its strict system of fines related to littering and improper tobacco disposal. Examples include:
Even forgetting that you had chewing gum in your pocket is not accepted as an excuse!
In Singapore, the sale and consumption of alcohol in public places between 10:30 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. the following morning, and being in a state of intoxication in public, are prohibited by law. As an exception, bars and restaurants with government approval may operate after 10:30 p.m., but the hours during which drinking is allowed differ by establishment, so do check on the timings beforehand!
Taking alcohol from location to location is also prohibited, and violations can result in a maximum fine of 1,000 SGD for a first offense. Drinking in a parked car on a public road, or staying in your car waiting to sober up, is also regarded as illegal. For drunk driving, a first offense can carry up to 1 year in prison or a fine of up to 10,000 SGD, or both, and may also result in a 2‑year suspension of your driver’s license.
Singapore has numerous laws that shape everyday life. This stems partly from the legal framework inherited during British colonial rule. Additionally, because the country is home to many ethnic groups living closely together, maintaining social order and public cleanliness is regarded as especially important.
Failure to comply with Singapore’s regulations can have serious consequences. For example, in 2020, some foreign nationals who broke COVID‑19‑related regulations were deported. To truly enjoy life in Singapore, it is essential to understand and follow the law.
Apart from the practical information above, one should always prepare in advance and read up on the local culture and customs for life in a new environment. By observing local laws and manners while actively participating in community activities and interactions, you can enjoy a richer and more fulfilling overseas posting. Value your interactions with local people, practice small gestures of consideration, and make the most of your life in this new environment.
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