Laws, Rules & Cultural Aspects

Singapore is strictly regulated — and proud of it. The rules may seem excessive to Europeans, but they are the reason the city functions so cleanly, safely, and efficiently. Here are the key ones:

The Famous Bans

• Chewing Gum: The sale of chewing gum has been banned since 1992 (therapeutic gum from the dentist is allowed). Possession is not punishable, but spitting or sticking it on the street: up to 1,000 SGD fine.
• Littering: Throwing trash on the street costs 300 SGD for the first offense, up to 1,000 SGD for the second. No joke — it is enforced.
• Smoking: Only in designated smoking areas. In restaurants, bars, public buildings, bus stops, and parks: absolute smoking ban. Fine: 300 SGD.
• Durian Ban: The stinky tropical fruit is banned in the MRT, buses, and most hotels — recognizable by the "No Durian" sign with a crossed-out fruit. The smell is so intense that it penetrates doors.
• Drugs: Singapore has one of the strictest drug laws in the world. Possession of more than 15g of cannabis or 30g of cocaine can mean the death penalty. No joke, no leeway. Even possession of small amounts leads to long prison sentences. Checks are conducted at the airport.
• Jaywalking: Crossing the street outside a crosswalk: 50 SGD fine (within 50 m of a crosswalk).

Cultural Notes

• Remove Shoes: Always remove shoes in temples and mosques. In private homes: ask, but it is usually expected.
• Right Hand: In Malay and Indian contexts: eat, give, and receive with the right hand. The left hand is considered unclean.
• Tipping: Not common and not expected. In restaurants, a 10% service charge and 9% GST are often already included in the price (marked on menus as "++" after the price).
• Address: "Uncle" and "Auntie" are respectful terms of address for older Singaporeans — in the hawker center, in the taxi, everywhere. It is endearing, not condescending.