The name 'Singapore' derives from the Sanskrit Singa Pura ('City of the Lion'). The country is located in South-East Asia and is just to the north of the equator.

The Republic of Singapore is a Southeast Asian City state, located at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. The country consists of 1 main island and approximately 63 smaller islands. Malaysia is to its north of Singapore and Indonesia is to its south. Singapore was a British colony until 1959, joined Malaysia in 1963, and became an independent state in 1965.

Singapore is a country of immigrants. Majority of the population is of Chinese heritage, but significant numbers of its residents are of Malay, Indian, European and Eurasian origin. The multi-cultural and multi-ethnic society with tolerance for racial and religious differences has been able to create a strong and a successful national identity. Proactive and liberal immigration policies of government have attracted foreign talents and business corporations from around the world. At present, Singapore has been transformed into a country of eclectic mixture of Asian and Western culture as a large number of its expats are from western countries.

The country is highly prosperous, cosmopolitan and enjoys one of the highest standards of living in Asia. Singapore is highly ranked for its infrastructure, technology, life style, education, health care, and business practices. A.T. Kearney- a global management-consulting firm named Singapore the most globalized country in the world in 2006 in its Globalization Index. The Economist's Intelligence Unit in its "Quality-of-Life Index" ranked Singapore as having the best quality of life in Asia and eleventh overall in the world for 2005.

However, as the country is developing economically and adapting the western ways of thinking and its traditions are changing fast. To conduct business in Singapore, it is pertinent that a person, company or a corporation should have basic knowledge of the vital facts of the country, understanding of the country's traditions, culture, values, and business practices.

Government

Parliamentary Republic
Head of State: President
Head of Government: Prime Minister
Legislature Branch

• President

• Parliament

• Speaker

• Constituencies

• Members of Parliament (MPs)

Executive Branch

• President

• Government

• Prime Minister

• Deputy PMs

• Cabinet

• Government Organizations

Judiciary Branch

• Chief Justice

• Supreme Court

• Court of Appeal and High Court

• Subordinate Courts

Political Parties: People's Action Party, Workers' Party, Singapore's People Party, Singapore Democratic Party.

Public Holidays: New Year's Day, Labor Day (May 1), National Day (August 9), and Christmas Day

Religions and other festivals whose dates vary from year to year are:

Chinese New Year (3 days), Good Friday, Wesak (Buddha Purnima, April/May), Hari Raya Puasa (End of Ramadan), Deepavali (Diwali, October/November), and Hari Raya Haji (Feast of the Sacrifice)

Languages: English, Chinese (Mandrin), Malay and Tamil are the four official languages. Several other languages such as Malayalam, Telugu, Hindi, Punjabi, Gujarati, and few Chinese dialects are popular. Singaporeans are mostly bilingual: proficient in mother tongue and English--the administrative language.

Literacy: 98.1% of Males and 94.1% of females over the age of 15 are literate.

Geography

Area: 697 sq. km

Land: 687 sq. km

Water: 10 sq. km

Singapore has 192nd position in Area as compared to the other countries of the World. The area is about 3.5 times the size of Washington, DC.

Capital City: Singapore City

Main Towns: Singapore City, Jurong, Bukit Panjang, Serangoon, Katong and Changi

Climate: The country has hot and humid tropical climate with two distinct monsoon seasons: Northern monsoons from December to March, and Southwestern monsoon from June to September. Minimum temperature usually ranges from 23 to 26 degree Celsius while the maximum is around 31 to 34 degree Celsius.

Terrain: The land is flat with few low hills (highest point is Bukit Timah at 163m). Some swamps have been reclaimed in the northeast part of the country.

Natural Resources: Fish, Deep-water ports

Environment: Some of the significant environmental issues are based on industrial pollution and seasonal smoke/haze from forest fires in Indonesia. Finite land and water resources to support a very high population density are the other major concerns.

People

Nationality: Singaporean(s)

Population: 5.35 million (July 2011 - index mundi)

Ethnic Groups: Chinese 76.8%, Malay 13.9%, Indian 7.9%, and other 1.4% (index mundi)

Religions: Buddhists 33%, Taoists 11%, Christians 18%, Muslims 15%, and Hindus 5.1%, no religion 17.0% and others 0.7%

Economy

Singapore has a highly developed market-based economy. Along with Hong Kong, South Korea and Taiwan, Singapore is one of the original Four Asian Tigers. The Singaporean economy is one of the most innovative, freest, most competitive, and business friendly. The 2011 Index of Economic Freedom ranks Singapore as the second highest and free economy in the world, behind Hong Kong.

Currency: Singapore Dollar (S$)

GDP growth: 6.4% p.a. 2006-2010

Industry: Singapore manufactures machinery and equipment (including electronics and telecommunications), pharmaceuticals and other chemicals, and refined petroleum products.

Media

There are several daily newspapers: The Strait Times, Business Times and Today are in English. Other dailies are in Chinese, Tamil or Malay.

Communications: Country code is 65; Internet domain is '.sg'. Mobile phone coverage is excellent. Internet cafes and post offices are located throughout the country.

Time: GMT plus 8hr

Traveler Information

Possession of even small quantities of drugs can lead to imprisonment, and drug trafficking may result in the death penalty. It is against the law to smoke in any public place or indoor restaurant or to drop a cigarette end in the street, and those caught will face an immediate fine. Chewing gum on public transportation is strictly prohibited.

Immigration and Customs: All visitors must have passports valid for six months from the date of arrival in Singapore. Check the visa requirements from the Online Singapore Embassy if it is required. The length of stay permitted to foreign nationals also varies depending on the country of origin, and these requirements should be checked while making travel plans.

There are restrictions on entering Singapore with guns, radio communication equipment, weapons and ammunition, as well as certain fruits, vegetables and fish. Chewing gum and tobacco products must be declared on arrival, and all liquor or tobacco products with "Singapore Duty Not Paid" on the packaging are prohibited.

A yellow fever vaccination certificate will be required from those arriving from infected areas.

Airport: Changi International airport is the main airport in Singapore. It is one of the best and a major aviation hub in Southeast Asia. The airport has won over 390 awards since 1981, including 23 'Best' awards in 2011.

Upon arrival just follow the signs to claim baggage and to go through immigration and customs. Some taxes and duty may apply to restricted items brought in from abroad. Cash of more than $30,000 or its equivalent in foreign currency should be reported to proper authorities.

Singapore has guidelines that restrict the amount of liquids, aerosols and gels that passengers can carry in their hand-carry luggage. Check with the airline before departing to or boarding flight from Singapore.

Singapore Embassy In USA

3501 International Place, NW
Washington DC 20008
Telephone: (202) 537-3100
Fax: (202) 537-0876

Singapore Consulates In USA

San Francisco Consulate
595 Market Street, Suite 2450,
San Francisco, CA 94105, USA
Telephone: (415) 543-4775
Fax: (415) 543-4788

New York Consulate 231 East 51st Street
New York NY 10022, USA
Telephone: (212)223-3331
Fax: (212)826-5028 / (212)838-9453

US Embassy In Singapore

27 Napier Road
Singapore 258508
Telephone: (65) 6476-9100
Fax: (65) 6476-9340

Singaporean Culture - Key Concepts & Values

Family: Family life based on unity, loyalty and respect for elderly is the center of their social structure. Family includes not only immediate and extended family members, but also relatives, and close friends. Respect for the elderly and extended family members builds a strong social system that a person can turn to for all kinds of help. Belonging to family also imbibes the values of collectivism over individualism. Affiliation to family, school and society is more important than a person's individual status, unlike in a western country.

'Kiasu': The Singaporean concept of 'kiasu' literally means 'fear of losing.' The concept refers to Singaporeans' desire to always be the best, come first and never lose. 'Kiasu' has both positive and negative connotations. Some Singaporeans believe that this value maintains high personal and business standards, creates strong work ethics, while others claim that it leads to chauvinistic society with too much emphasis on competitiveness

Concept of Face: Maintaining and saving 'face' is a vital value in Singaporean culture. To avoid losing face in public, they control their behavior and emotions, do not confront or criticize other people openly, and use indirect communication style. Losing face has negative consequences on a person's family and social groups; as well as on an individual's reputation, credibility and authority.

Diversity: One of the most remarkable aspects of Singapore is its cosmopolitan and diverse society. With a diverse population of Chinese, Malay, Indians, Europeans, and of Eurasians it is truly a multicultural and multiethnic society. Religion, ethnic differences, customs and traditions of each group are accepted and respected. Despite the visible signs of separation between these groups, Singapore has developed a unifying culture and cohesiveness among its population to create strong national identity. Singaporeans of the younger generation think of themselves as Singaporean first, and as Chinese, Malay or Indian second.

Hierarchy/Rank: Singaporeans claim they are an egalitarian society, yet strong hierarchical relationships are still maintained between parents and children, teachers and students, and employers, and employees. Hierarchy is the effect of Confucianism philosophy that emphasizes respect to age, status, and obedience to one's elders. In the workplace, the senior employees are given utmost respect and courtesy. A law passed in 1996, mandates that children must assume financial responsibility for their elderly parents should the need arise. This is indicative of the high status of the elderly and the challenges facing the small country as the next generation becomes more individualistic.

Business Culture & Protocol

With a modern infrastructure and an economy that surpasses many Western countries, Singapore is the most developed country in Southeast Asia. Country's strategic location, its hardworking and educated workforce, and political stability have transformed it to an international financial and commercial center that is popularly known as one of Asia's economic 'tigers.' Basic understanding of the business practices, customs, and traditions is vital for anyone who may like to establish business in Singapore.

Meeting and Greeting

• Singapore's business community is a mix of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and European entrepreneurs. It is prudent to know the cultural and ethnic background of the business partners before starting any negotiations.

• Normal business hours are between 9 am to 5 pm with one hour for lunch, Monday to Friday. Some offices will open for a half-day on Saturday morning.

• Senior members of any delegation are given preferential seats and introduced first based on their status.

• Shake hands with everyone present at a business meeting or social occasion. Shake hands again when leaving. Singaporeans may bow slightly as they shake hand. Slight bow is a sign of respect and it is preferred that westerners should follow this practice.

Business Cards

• Business cards are exchanged after the initial introductions, and cards should be exchanged with both hands.

• If you are to meet Chinese, it is a good idea to have one side of card translated into Mandarin. Have the Chinese characters printed in gold, as this is an auspicious color.

• Examine business cards carefully before putting them in a business card case; this is a sign of respect and to show that you really appreciate this contact.

Meetings

• It is vital that meetings should remain harmonious and non-confrontational with due regard to the preservation of 'face.' Confrontational topics should be dropped or be taken up later, and be dealt with proper negotiations.

• Punctuality is crucial; coming late to the meeting is a sign of disrespect.

• Respect to the hierarchy is vital during the meetings. A thoughtful pause prior to answering question to senior managers is a sign of respect.

• The use of coded, vague and diplomatic language may make meetings inconclusive and confusing. It is very important to have a good understanding of Singaporean communication styles.

Communication Style

• There are four official languages: Malay, Mandarin, Tamil and English. However, English is the most popular language for administration and businesses.

• Vague and subtle language is the norm; what is said is not what is necessarily meant. Try to look for the meaning behind the words.

• Singaporeans are group dependent and rely on facial expression, tone of voice and posture to express their views.

• They often trust non-verbal messages more than the spoken word. This implies that vital communication may be indirect and implicit.

• 'No' does not always mean 'no' and 'yes' may mean 'may be.' Always try to understand the context for the usage of these words.

• Do not challenge the other person openly even if you perceive that facts or data is misinterpreted.

• Avoid humor in business meetings as it may be misinterpreted or misunderstood. However, in social situation humor is very much appreciated.

• Silence is an important element of Singaporean communication. Pausing before responding to a question indicates that due consideration is given to answer.

• Concentrate only on your organization or corporation issues and avoid any conversation related to personal matters.

Business Culture

• Each ethnic group has a different way of using names; it is advisable to ask a Singaporean how he/she would like to be addressed. When meeting a person for the first time, it is appropriate to use the title and last name until told differently.

• Appointments are necessary and should be made at least 2 weeks in advance. Arrive at a meeting on time. Punctuality is a virtue. Tardiness is not only a sign of disrespect but may also imply that a visitor is not serious.

• Singaporeans tend to get right down to business in meetings. They are fast-paced and make decisions quickly.

• Presentations should be supplemented with backup material, including charts and figures.

• Singaporean bureaucratic system is known for its high efficiency and corruption free business style. Western-style management is the modus operandi in most of national and international corporations.

• In business discussions, Singaporeans tend to be calm and composed and do not openly show their emotions. Speaking loudly is considered rude.

• Do not take "yes" from Singaporean counterparts literally. Singaporeans will rarely answer a question with a blunt 'no', 'yes' can mean maybe and even 'no.'

• Do not make intense eye contact with a senior or an older person, as it is a sign of disrespect.

Relationships

• Singaporeans consider personal relationships fundamental to ensure business success. This viewpoint is based on Asian philosophies of creating good rapport before establishing business relations.

• Being a group-oriented culture, relationships are often based on ethnicity, education or working for the same company.

• Business is a matter of belonging to a network, which is the result of friendships, personal relationships and social networks.

Management Style

• Status and hierarchy are highly important as companies usually have a top-down structure. The senior management always makes decisions, and subordinates avoid questioning or criticizing their superiors.

• Managers announce the decisions to their teams and expect full compliance. This does not mean they do not expect any disagreement. Any dissention with managers is handled in private meetings.

• The managers expect to be respected and obeyed, and in return, they show loyalty and dedication to the well-being of team. Managers show paternalistic attitude and holistic interest in the all-round well being of their subordinates.

• Singaporeans believe in "meritocracy." Promotions and upward mobility is always based on merit and performance rather than on personal connections.

Negotiations

• Always send a list of people who will be attending the negotiations and their title well in advance.

• Negotiations are often conducted at a slow pace and Singaporeans are likely to bargain hard especially on prices and deadlines.

• Singaporeans are non-confrontational. They will not overtly say 'no' and likewise their 'yes' does not mean always signify agreement.

• Do not be impatient in business negotiations, as your Singaporean counterparts will see this as a weakness.

• Decisions are consensus driven.

Teams

• As a group oriented culture, Singaporeans make highly effective team players as they perceive that team members promote harmonious interaction rather competition.

• Teams favor consensus decision-making, even if the process may be lengthy and frustrating. This procedure also protects members of the team from the possibility of 'losing face.'

• Decisions are team based and therefore success or failure is also team based.

Women Executives

• Women have made tremendous advances in the business area over the past few decades and female executives now hold many senior positions

• Singapore has an official policy against discrimination of women, and they play an active role in all levels of business chain of command.

• Eye contact should be minimal and proper physical distance should be observed.

• Foreign female executives are given due respect and recognition based on their professional ranks.

Dress Code

• Due to the country's proximity to equator, weather is hot and humid all year around. These climate conditions define that clothing should be informal and suited to tropical weather.

• Dark trousers, long-sleeved shirts and ties are appropriate business clothing for men. Jackets and coats are not comfortable to wear in tropical weather conditions.

• Women business executives may wear lightweight business suits, skirts or trousers. Although Singapore is a liberal country, nevertheless, women should not wear revealing clothes. Accessories should be of good quality but not ostentatious.

Dining/Entertainment

• Business entertainment is vital to establish and build personal relationships than to formulate partnerships. Restaurants and hotels are best places to host business banquets and parties than in homes.

• It is customary for the host to order all the dishes. Pre-meal drinks and appetizers are not so popular, though those are available in Western restaurants.

• If the hosts entertain business partners at a banquet, it is considered appropriate that the guests should also reciprocate by hosting a banquet of the same standard.

• If the host is Chinese, then wait for the host to start eating or to say, "Enjoy your meal", before guests may start with their meal.

• When finished with meal, place chopsticks on the chopstick rest (setting them on plate means you are not finished eating).

• Be on time for dinner with Malays. The dinner is served on time with no pre-dinner drinks or appetizers.

• Indians always wash their hands before and after a meal. In Malay and Indian homes, a small bowl of water and towel is provided to wash your hands.

• It is polite to leave some food on your plate. Finishing everything may imply that you are still hungry.

• Be aware of the food sensitivities. Muslims will avoid pork and alcohol, while Hindus will not eat beef.

• Tipping is not so common in Singapore. If the bill does not include service charge then 10% tip is sufficient.

• Always bring the hosts a gift when invited to their home.

Gift Giving

• Each ethnic group has different gift exchange traditions and customs based on their specific religious beliefs and cultural values. Be thoroughly familiar with values of ethnic groups before presenting gifts.

• Government prohibits any presentation of gifts to public officials as those may be considered as bribes.

• It is better to give one gift to the group as a whole, if individual gifts are given, they should be merely tokens (pens with corporate logos, etc.)

• Use both hands to give a gift. A gift is usually not opened in the presence of the presenter.

Helpful Hints

• Singapore has many strict rules and regulations to monitor the behavior and activities of its residents. Any violation of these rules results in stiff fines, caning, possible jail sentences or even death. Visitors should thoroughly read the latest regulations issued by the government. Nevertheless, they should never do the following: jaywalk; smoke in public or in air-conditioned buildings (except country clubs); enter the country with drugs; litter, import and sell chewing gum.

• Avoid any public display of affection.

• Avoid any discussion of religion or politics in public.