May 11th, 2009
The Respectful Way of Singapore Culture
Singapore has a population that consists of many different cultures and religions. The ethnic make-up includes those from India, Malaysia, and China. The religions vary from Muslim to Christian to Hinduism and Buddhism. There is not just one national language, but four, English, Tamil, Malay and Mandarin. It is for this reason that the rules of social etiquette are very important. Singapore is a huge meeting place for international business, with meetings taking place in many of the best Singapore restaurants, and it is always helpful to understand the customs so as to not unknowingly offend those that one comes in contact with.
The family is the key in the society and culture of Singapore. The good of the whole always outweighs the good of an individual. This family unit is the center of all social structures, and the harmony, the security and the unity of the group is most important. The elders of this society are highly respected and treated with reverence. This is the core of the value system of the entire island. And with the respect that is given to others, it is very important for the individual to be as well, one who is worthy of that respect. To be thought of as having good character with ones family and peers is one of the elements of creating a harmonious relationship with those one comes into contact with on a daily basis.
The hierarchical stratus is extremely respected, between children and parents, students and teachers, and employees and employers. It is always wise to know who is in charge and to treat them with consideration, most certainly if one is not personally a friend. Introductions of elders is always first, they are give the best food, the best seats and are generally held in high regard. In 1996, a law passed in Singapore that makes it illegal for the elders of the society and the family to not be taken care of should the need arise. These are aspects of doing business with Singaporeans and aspects to consider and put into practice when on the island of Singapore.
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