As Singapore becomes increasingly Westernized, so do the habits and customs of its population. Nevertheless, there are some differences or at least noticeable facets of its set of customs that expatriates should be aware of. For one, the Chinese concepts of ‘guanxi’ and ‘saving face’ are important to successful business and personal relationships with locals. Guanxi refers to the importance of social networks and the value of investing time in developing relationships. Who you know can often get you far in Singapore, and it is to your benefit to spend time with people instead of rushing them. Secondly, Chinese Singaporeans are very concerned with ‘saving face’, and if possible, you should avoid contradicting or correcting someone publicly. If you disagree, it’s better to find a roundabout way of saying so that allows the person to maintain a sense of being in the right.
Conservatism
Singapore is generally a very conservative country where radical ideas, behaviors, and dress are not appreciated.
Personal Space
People do not respect personal space as much as they do in the West, and jostling or close contact in crowds is not unusual. Even social acquaintances may stand closer to you than you’d normally expect. Don’t be surprised, either, if you’re pushed a bit in a queue. There’s a term called ‘kiasu’ that refers to Singaporeans’ need to be up front and ahead of others – kind of a ‘me first’ attitude. It’s a bit offensive if coming from a foreigner, but widely used by locals.
Entertaining and Appreciation
Singaporeans typically do not entertain non-family in the home. Thus, don’t be surprised if Singaporean colleagues are hesitant to accept dinner invitations to your home. Gifting is generally very ceremonious, and there are different expectations of the kinds of gifts given depending upon the nationality of the individual. Here are some general rules:
Exchanging gifts to someone of Chinese descent-
- DON’T give cutting utensils, such as a knife or scissors. It represents severing a relationship.
- DON’T give clocks, handkerchiefs or flowers, they are all associated with death or funerals.
- Some Chinese may refuse a gift. They may do so up to three times. They do this to show that they are not greedy.
Exchanging gifts with someone of Malay descent:
- DON’T give alcohol or anything made of pigskin as many Malays are Muslim and accepting such gifts is against their religion.
- Give a gift when leaving, not arriving.
- Use your right hand or both hands to give a gift. Never use your left hand.
Exchanging gifts with someone of Indian descent:
- DON’T give frangipani if you wish to give flowers. They are for funerals.
- Use your right hand or both hands to give a gift. Never use your left hand.
- DON’T give a gift made of leather to someone who is Hindu.
Cleanliness and Order
Singaporeans greatly value cleanliness and order. Spitting is not tolerated, nor is gum chewing or littering. Eating publicly in undesignated eating establishments is frowned upon.
Deference to Elders and Focus on Family
Singaporeans are very committed to family, and great importance is given to elders. The elderly are revered for their wisdom and deferred to in matters of family importance. Furthermore, they are treated with respect in public places such as MRTs and waiting rooms.
Singlish
Singapore English, or ‘Singlish’, can be a bit difficult to understand at first with its unusual inflections and added hybrid Chinese – Malay vocabulary. One will quickly pick up on it, however. Locals find it terribly funny if you add the typical Singlish syllable ‘lah’ to the end of your sentence.
Dogs
There are a large number of Muslims living in Singapore and they generally do not like to come in contact with dogs. Show respect for this and properly handle your dog at all times.
