Social Etiquette & Norms

Singapore is known for its orderliness, efficiency and respect for rules, which are reflected in its social norms and etiquette. Whether you’re a visitor or a new resident, understanding these customs will help you navigate daily life and blend in seamlessly with the locals.

1. Tipping Is Not Customary

Unlike many other countries, tipping is not a common practice in Singapore. Most restaurants and establishments already include a 10% service charge and 9% Goods and Services Tax (GST) in the bill, so there’s no need to leave extra cash.

However, tipping is neither expected nor required.

2. The Queueing Culture

Singaporeans take queueing very seriously - it’s practically a national pastime! Whether it’s for the latest gadget release, a limited-edition product or a famous hawker dish, you’ll often see long, orderly queues. Even in crowded places like public transport stations, people line up patiently and follow the queue system.

Pro Tip: Never cut a queue in Singapore, it’s considered extremely rude and locals won’t hesitate to call you out for it. If you’re urgent or in a rush, politely ask the person in front if you can go ahead. Singaporeans are generally understanding and will accommodate genuine requests.

3. Stick To The Left

Singapore follows the British system, so traffic flows on the left side of the road. This rule extends to pedestrian movement as well. When walking in crowded areas, always stick to the left to avoid bumping into others.

On escalators, the left side is for standing, while the right side is reserved for those who want to walk up or down. This unwritten rule is widely observed, so be sure to follow it to keep the flow moving smoothly.

Photo by Jiachen Lin on Unsplash

4. Returning Your Tray

In Singapore, cleanliness is a shared responsibility. While there are cleaners in hawker centers and food courts, it’s expected that diners return their trays and dispose of their trash after eating. Some places even impose fines for failing to do so.

This practice also extends to fast food restaurants and cafes, where it’s common courtesy to clear your table before leaving. By doing so, you’re helping to maintain the clean and efficient environment that Singapore is known for.

5. Addressing Elders As “Auntie” And “Uncle”

In Singapore, it’s common to address older individuals as “Auntie” or “Uncle,” even if they’re not related to you. This is a sign of respect and friendliness and it’s often used when speaking to elderly strangers, such as hawker stall owners, taxi drivers or cleaners.

For example:

• “Auntie, can I have one more plate of chicken rice?”
• “Uncle, how much is the fare to Orchard Road?”

Using these terms shows that you acknowledge their seniority in a warm and respectful way. It’s a small gesture that goes a long way in building rapport with locals.

6. Cultural Sensitivities

Singapore is a multicultural society, so it’s important to be mindful of cultural and religious practices. Here are a few things to note:

• Dress Modestly at Religious Sites: When visiting temples, mosques, or churches, dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering.
• Avoid Public Displays of Affection: While holding hands is acceptable, excessive displays of affection may be frowned upon in public spaces.
• Be Mindful of Dietary Restrictions: Some Singaporeans follow dietary restrictions based on their religion (e.g., Muslims avoid pork, Hindus avoid beef). When dining with locals, it’s considerate to ask about their preferences.

Want to know more about Singapore's multicultural harmony? Read up here!

7. Laws & Fines: The “Fine” City

Singapore is often referred to as a “fine” city, and for good reason. Many social norms are backed by strict laws to ensure order and cleanliness. Here are a few examples:

• Littering: Fines can go up to S$1,000 for first-time offenders.
• Jaywalking: Crossing the road outside of designated areas can result in a fine.
• Chewing Gum: The sale of chewing gum is restricted, and spitting gum in public is a punishable offense.

These laws may seem strict, but they play a key role in maintaining Singapore’s reputation as one of the cleanest and safest cities in the world.

Find out about all the possible laws in Singapore here!

As you dive in to Singapore's society, remember that social etiquette here isn’t just about rules, but about respect. From the quiet courtesy on public transport to the warmth behind a well-placed “lah,” these norms reflect a society that values harmony in diversity. Embracing them isn’t just polite, it’s how you become part of the rhythm of life on the island.