To understand the culture of Singapore, we have to realize that there is no single cultural identity for the country. Singapore is a melting pot of different cultures, having an amalgamation of Malay, South Asian, Southeast Asian, and Eurasian influences. This unique arrangement is an amazing example of how different cultures can coexist and thrive together in harmony.
The indigenous culture of Singapore was first influenced by Austronesian people who came from Taiwan. Over the centuries, Singapore’s culture was further shaped by the arrival of various Chinese dynasties and other Asian countries, resulting in the rich cultural heritage that we see today. From food to music, language to festivals, Singaporean culture is a fascinating mix of different elements, each with its own story to tell.
Another thing that makes Singapore so unique is its stunning blend of nature and technology. One of the best examples of this is the Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay.
If you’re interested in going to Singapore, you can find the travel guide right here!
Singapore Population Composition
With a population of over 5.7 million people, Singapore is one of the most densely populated countries in the world. The majority of the population are of Chinese descent, making up roughly 74.3% of the total population, followed by Malay (13.4%), Indian (9.0%), and other ethnic groups (3.3%). Despite its small size, Singapore has a high level of cultural and linguistic diversity, with over 20 languages recognized in the country. This diversity is reflected in Singapore’s unique multicultural identity, which has been shaped by centuries of immigration and integration.
Peranakan
Peranakan refers to people of mixed Chinese and Malay/Indonesian heritage who have their own unique culture and customs in Singapore. The term “Peranakan” comes from the Malay word “anak,” which means child or offspring, and refers to the descendants of Chinese immigrants who settled in the Malay archipelago and intermarried with local Malays and Indonesians.
Peranakan culture is a blend of Chinese, Malay, and Indonesian traditions, with influences from other cultures such as Portuguese and Dutch. It is characterized by its own distinctive cuisine, clothing, language, architecture, and other customs. Peranakan culture has played an important role in Singapore’s history. The Peranakan Museum in Singapore, for instance, showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Peranakan people and their contributions to Singaporean society.
Cultural Concepts in Singapore
Face
Face is a cultural concept that is important in many Asian societies, including Singapore. It refers to a person’s social status, reputation, and dignity. In Singaporean culture, losing face is considered a serious matter, and people may go to great lengths to avoid it.
Harmony
Harmony is reflected in the country’s multiculturalism and the way that different ethnic and religious groups are able to coexist peacefully. The government has also put in place policies to promote social harmony, such as the Ethnic Integration Policy, which aims to ensure that public housing estates are racially integrated.
Li
Li is a Confucian concept that translates to “Social Cohesiveness.” It is based on the idea that each individual has a role to play in society and that everyone should strive to fulfill their duties and obligations. In Singapore, the concept of li is reflected in the emphasis on the importance of maintaining a harmonious society.
Meritocracy
Meritocracy is a system in which individuals are rewarded based on their abilities and achievements rather than their social status or background. It is a core value in Singaporean society and is reflected in the country’s education system and civil service, which are based on the principle of meritocracy.
What is the Religion in Singapore?
Religion plays a significant role in the multi-faceted culture of Singapore. Singapore’s religious diversity is a reflection of its multicultural and multi-religious society, with a mix of major world religions such as Buddhism (31.1%), Christianity (18.2%), Islam (14.3%), Taoism (10.9%), and Hinduism (5%).
The freedom of religion is enshrined in the Singaporean constitution, and the government actively promotes religious harmony and tolerance. The government has also set up the Inter-Racial and Religious Confidence Circles (IRCCs) as a platform to foster mutual understanding and respect among different religious groups in the country.
You can see this reflected in the religious landmarks scattered around the city for instance, you will find Buddhist temples such as the Buddha Tooth Relic a few blocks away from Hindu temples such as Sri Mariamman, you can also find churches and mosques all coexisting peacefully, it’s an amazing sight to behold!
What are the Traditions in Singapore?
In Singapore, many people incorporate elements from different cultures into their spiritual practices. For example, many Singaporeans practice feng shui, which is a traditional Chinese practice of arranging objects and structures to create balance and harmony in the environment. Meditation and yoga are also practices derived from Hinduism and Buddhism.
There is also the belief in the supernatural and the unseen, which is common in many Asian cultures. Singaporeans believe in ghosts, spirits, and other supernatural entities and often incorporate these beliefs into their daily lives, such as avoiding certain places at certain times or using Taoist charms or amulets for protection.
Traditional Chinese Medicine such as accupuncture, Tai Chi or Qi Gong are also popular. These are practices are incorporated to balance the body’s energy (Qi).
Singaporean Traditional Music
Singaporean music and dance are a fusion of various cultural influences such as traditional Malay, Indian, and Chinese music and dance forms have intermixed with Western styles to create a unique and eclectic blend that represents Singapore’s multicultural heritage.
One of the most famous music and dance forms in Singapore is the traditional Malay dance called “Joget,” which originated in the 1920s. The dance is characterized by graceful and rhythmic movements, accompanied by lively music played by the “Gambus” (a traditional Malay stringed instrument). Another popular traditional dance form is the “Bhangra,” which is a vibrant and energetic Punjabi dance that has gained immense popularity in Singapore’s Indian community.
Singaporean Traditional Dances
Singaporean music and dance are a fusion of various cultural influences such as traditional Malay, Indian, and Chinese music and dance forms have intermixed with Western styles to create a unique and eclectic blend that represents Singapore’s multicultural heritage.
One of the most famous music and dance forms in Singapore is the traditional Malay dance called “Joget,” which originated in the 1920s. The dance is characterized by graceful and rhythmic movements, accompanied by lively music played by the “Gambus” (a traditional Malay stringed instrument). Another popular traditional dance form is the “Bhangra,” which is a vibrant and energetic Punjabi dance that has gained immense popularity in Singapore’s Indian community.
What to Eat in Singapore?
Singaporean cuisine is like a medley of various ethnicities, influenced by Chinese, Malay, Indian, and European traditions, Singaporean cuisine offers a unique blend of flavors and aromas that attract food lovers from all around the world. To immerse yourself in Singapore’s food scene head to the hawker centers. Many of these hawker centers have gained international recognition, with some even receiving Michelin stars! Some of the dishes that you can’t miss in Singapore are:
Hainanese Chicken Rice: The quintissential meal to have in Singapore. Fragrant rice cooked with chicken stock and served with steamed or roasted chicken, accompanied by a variety of condiments like chili sauce, ginger paste, and dark soy sauce. It’s also Singapore’s national dish.
Laksa: A spicy noodle soup dish made with coconut milk, fish or prawn stock, and a variety of ingredients like fish cake, tofu puffs, and bean sprouts. There are different variations of laksa in Singapore, with the most popular being the curry laksa and the assam laksa.
Chili Crab: A seafood dish made with mud crabs cooked in a savory chili and tomato-based sauce. It is usually served with fried or steamed buns, which are used to soak up the delicious sauce.
Nasi Lemak: A fragrant rice dish cooked with coconut milk and pandan leaves, usually served with fried chicken, sambal chili paste, fried anchovies, and peanuts.
Roti Prata: A type of Indian-influenced flatbread that is crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. It is usually served with curry or dhal, and can also be enjoyed with sweet toppings like condensed milk and sugar.
What is Singaporean Language like?
Singapore has four official languages: English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil. However, English is widely used and is the most common language for business and government.
Singaporean English, also known as Singlish, is a unique and colorful creole language that combines English with words and phrases from Malay, Chinese dialects, and other languages. It is characterized by its distinct grammar, vocabulary, and intonation. Singlish is widely spoken among locals and is often used in informal settings.
Some Singlish phrases you might hear while in Singapore:
Can lah – Can do/okay
Chop chop – Hurry up
Shiok – Great/enjoyable
Lah – Used to emphasize a statement (you will hear this quite often)
Aiya – Expression of annoyance or disappointment
Useful Phrases for Travelers in Singapore
While English should be pretty much understood almost everywhere, here are some phrases just in case you’re curious:
|
English
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Malay
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Mandarin
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Tamil
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|---|---|---|---|
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Hello
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Selamat
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Ni hao
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Vanakkam
|
|
Thank you
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Terima Kasih
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Xie xie
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Nandri
|
|
Good bye
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Selamat tinggal
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Zai jian
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Poi vidu
|
|
Yes
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Ya
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Shi
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Amaam
|
|
No
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Tidak
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Bu shi
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Illai
|
|
Excuse me
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Maafkan saya
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Qing wen
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Maaf pannuven
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|
Please
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Silakan
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Qing
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Azhutha
|
|
How much?
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Berapa harganya?
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Duo shao qian?
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Evvalavu?
|
Traditional Festivals in Singapore
Chinese New Year
This is the most important festival for the Chinese community in Singapore and is celebrated for 15 days, usually in late January or early February. The main celebration takes place in Chinatown with vibrant decorations, dragon and lion dances, and a street bazaar selling festive goods.
Thaipusam
This Hindu festival is held in honor of Lord Kartikeya (the same deity in front of Malaysia’s Batu Caves!) and is celebrated on the full moon day in the Tamil month of Thai (usually in January or February). Devotees carry kavadis and pierce their bodies as part of their religious vows. The main celebration takes place at the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple and ends at the Sri Thendayuthapani Temple.
Eid al-Fitr
This Muslim festival marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated with feasting and visiting family and friends. It usually falls in May or June and is celebrated in the Geylang Serai area with colorful lights, bazaars selling Malay delicacies, and cultural performances.
National Day
Celebrated on 9th August every year, National Day marks Singapore’s independence from Malaysia in 1965. The celebrations include a parade, a fly-past, and fireworks at the Marina Bay area.
Mid-Autumn Festival
Also known as the Mooncake Festival, this festival is celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month (usually in September or October). The main celebration takes place in Chinatown with colorful lanterns, mooncakes, and a parade.
Customs in Singapore
- In Singapore, respect for elders is highly valued. It’s important to address them with titles such as “uncle” or “auntie”
- Tipping is not a common practice in Singapore as a service charge is often included in the bill. However, if you feel that the service was exceptional, you can still offer a tip
- The sale and import of chewing gum are banned in Singapore so don’t get caught with any in your mouth
- Singaporeans are known for their orderly queuing, so be sure to join the back of the line and wait your turn
- You will notice that Singapore is a very pristine and clean country so littering is a serious offense, and you can be fined for it. Be sure to dispose of your trash in the proper bins
- Do not put your chopsticks up vertically on dishes, this is really taboo as it’s reminiscent of incense for the dead
Plan Your Trip to Singapore | Best Travel Resources
Book Your Accommodations
- Booking.com – the world’s leading online booking platform for accomodations around the world, they have an extensive amount of available listings with zero booking fees and best price guarantees.
- Hostelworld – a backpacker’s best friend, Hostelworld has the largest collection of hostels and guesthouses for affordable prices.
Don’t Forget Insurance
- SafetyWing – from Nomad Insurance, an insurance by nomads for nomads. They understand our lifestyle well and have really comprehensive and flexible plans that cater to any traveler.
Find Cheap Flights
- Kiwi.com – my go-to for booking and finding the cheapest flights and it’s helped me save tons of money. They do virtual interlining which is connecting flights from airlines that do not codeshare, so you can find routes that you wouldn’t be able to find normally.
Join Tours & Activities
- GetYourGuide – is one of the best places to find unique tours and activities. I found that it’s an excellent way to meet fellow travelers and create fond memories. They are not only limited to tours as they also offer niche services such as skip-the-line tickets or private transfers.
Catch a Ride
- Rentalcars.com – nothing beats the freedom of the road, Rentalcars.com is the world’s largest online car rental service. They operate across 160 countries so they’re the perfect partner to work with if you find yourself wanting a ride.
