Categories: Travel

Singapore: Part 2

Culture & Etiquette

Singapore is home to a diverse and varied culture embracing people from many ethnic backgrounds. The culture of Singapore is defined by social and religious beliefs of peace and justice to create harmony within the culture therefore etiquette is seen as the vehicle to achieve a harmonious environment. The Culture in Singapore is unique to the point of seemingly obsessiveness with citizens respectful of and incredibly involved in their heritage and societal norms. To the fortunate visitor this is a repository of ideals that is exemplified in every custom and action shaping its etiquette.

Visitors to the nation should be aware of the ethnic diversity of culture, religion, communication, and body language. Communication in particular is done in a subdued manner; respectful tone, low-keyed voice, and friendly demeaner. Cause for celebration is the exception to these rules. The local customs are inclusive and form the bedrock for social and religious framework. Social etiquette dictates the use of hand gestures to communicate refusals, and there are strict rules on social conduct that requires significant fines or jail terms, even a death sentence if they are broken. The offences range from:

Jay Walking
Smoking in public in non-designated areas
Drug trafficking
Importation of, selling, manufacturing, and chewing gum.
Littering

Businesses in Singapore embraces modern business practices to complement its modern infrastructure and leadership strategy to promote equality. Businesses are open to men as well as women on an equal platform since women in business has an equal stance with men, and there is an official policy against discrimination of women

Giving & Receiving

As in most other country it is forbidden to give gifts to government officials as this can be construed as bribery. Gifts are presented to individuals using both hands, and the receiver may not open the gift in the presence of the giver as this is considered rude. Businesses do not encourage the giving of gifts for the same reasons as those involving government officials.

As a visitor there are set rules/traditions for dining, body language display, and clothing attire. Body language in particular can be offensive in one culture while acceptable in other cultures, so one must be aware of the nuance to look for. Never touch the head as this is considered sacred, do not point with the foot, sit as still as possible and raise your hand to be recognized during conversations. Never hit your fists in the palm of the hand as this is considered an obscene gesture. In Singapore men dress as modern as required by culture spanning business and social rules. Women are dressed according to cultural norms by wearing dresses, skirts and light apparel as the weather is mostly hot.

Dining Etiquette

Dining in Singapore require knowledge of host and guest requirements as each has a part to play that ensure a successful banquet. As a guest one is expected to be on time since meals are served promptly. The custom is for the host to order for visitors/guest and will also lead in sampling the meal before anyone else. In restaurants the norm is for all to be served at the same time with sharing encouraged during the meal. As a gesture of respect it is customary for one to refuse additional food politely by simply placing ones hand above the plate to communicate your intent.