We unveil the fascinating quirks that shape the distinct identity of Singaporeans - from kiasu culture to hawker love.
“This is home, truly” – Singapore may not be perfect, but hey, we rock our quirks like badges of honour. Just like a spicy chilli crab, our Singaporean culture is bursting with flavour, embracing diversity and bringing everyone to the same table. So if you’re stepping into our vibrant city, buckle up for a wild ride of uniquely Singaporean traits. No culture shock here – just a crash course in the awesomeness that makes us tick!
Quirky and proud: Peculiar traits that define Singaporeans
1. Our queuing culture is elite
Singaporeans are serial queuers due to our kiasu nature – yup, we have major FOMO. We love queuing up for almost everything, especially if limited edition products or freebies are up for grabs. Remember the Hello Kitty plushie craze at McDonald’s? I sheepishly had the whole collection but sold it on Carousell (another typical Singaporean thing to do). We may love complaining but we have no qualms about queuing for the most ridiculous things.
2. We’re kinda used to room temperature food
As a local, it never occurred to me that some of our hawker food is served at room temperature or slightly warm until a non-local pointed it out. A common example is Hainanese chicken rice, where the chicken is usually poached or roasted and cooled. Other local delights include nasi lemak, rojak and popiah.
3. Our form of marriage proposal is applying for a BTO
“3 words. 8 letters. Say it and I’m yours.” No, we’re not talking about the iconic scene from Gossip Girl. Asking your boo, “Want to BTO?” is the most Singaporean way of proposing. Built-to-Order flats are part of a public housing program by the Housing and Development Board (HDB). These new residential units are built in response to demand and have a waiting time of at least four to five years. So unless you’re opting for other housing options, this is the first big step for most Singaporean couples.
4. We love to complain
Call it being passionate or having high expectations but one of our many forms of expression is complaining. Was the train delayed? The weather’s too hot or cold? Mad traffic during rush hour? You’ll see a slew of angry comments popping up everywhere. Maybe it’s not accurate to say this because people’s attitudes and behaviours vary, but you can’t tell me you’ve never bonded or broken the ice with someone who shares similar grievances.
5. Air conditioning gets us on a dopamine high
Ever wondered why malls are always crowded? I’ll let you in on a secret. It’s because the cool air-conditioning gives us comfort on extra hot days. Thankfully, we have plenty of shopping malls scattered across the city. You know where to cool off (for free) now.
6. We’re super specific about our food orders
“Mee kia with more chilli and vinegar and no tau gay (bean sprouts)” – my bak chor mee order isn’t the same unless it’s exactly how I like it. Just like myself, Singaporeans have varying preferences. And we’re big on condiments. Walk through an eatery and you’ll notice that most tables have little saucers filled with chopped green chilli, sambal, soya sauce or chilli padi. De-lish!
7. We use our tissue packets differently
Go to a hawker centre or food court and you’ll notice tissue packets on tables. No, it’s not part of the service. It’s our way of chopping (reserving) the seat. Items can range from name cards to umbrellas to even phones – though I’ve never seen that.
8. We don’t like small talk
This may depend on their personality but you won’t find many cashiers or waiters asking about your day. Some label it as ‘rude’ or ‘poor service’ but we like to look at it as being efficient. They take your order, you receive it, and you go about your day. Of course, that shouldn’t stop you from making small talk if that’s how you roll. Just be wary of the hawker stall aunties during peak hour – they can be fierce.
9. The bubble tea craze is real
Boba has taken off globally – especially in America – but Singaporeans have always gone gaga for bubble tea. Remember the days of Each A Cup when a cup cost below $2? Today, we have myriad bubble tea shops scattered around the city from popular chains and humble drink stalls.
So, did you learn a thing or two about our peculiar (but lovable) Singaporean traits?