Travelling to Singapore? Here Are 4 Rules You Must Know

Singapore is one of the most visited countries in the world. The country is known for its architectural marvels, bustling fashion streets, night safaris, and diverse ethnic makeup. Singapore is also considered to be one of the cleanest and safest countries in the world and is one of the best countries to live in, according to a survey conducted by Business Insider. One of the major reasons behind Singapore earning this reputation is that the rules are strictly enforced by the law enforcement agencies. Before opting for a Singapore tour, it is important that you go through some important rules listed in the blog that impact the locals’ and visitors’ daily life. Take a look.

1. Carrying Chewing gum can Attract Penalty

Chewing gum cannot be legally imported into or sold in Singapore. The country banned chewing gums in 2004. The rule was enacted to aid property owners maintain their buildings better. People who use therapeutic or nicotine gums are exempt from this rule and can buy it from a doctor (only if prescribed). The rule is enforced strictly and anyone found guilty of carrying large quantities of gum or disposing it improperly can face a fine of up to $1000.

2. Littering is Punishable

Over the years, the Singapore government has enacted anti-littering laws that aim to help maintain its status as one of the cleanest countries in the world. Any deviations attract a fine, the quantum of which depends on the extent to which the offender’s actions impact the environment. First time offenders who are found guilty of disposing small items like cigarrete buds and candy wrappers can get away with a $300 fine. Those who fail to dispose bigger items such as drink cans and bottles will be required to appear before a court that as a penalty asks them to clean a specified area.

3. Smoking is Prohibited in Certain Areas

Anti-smoking laws have been in place in Singapore since 1970, when the country first banned smoking in buses, theatres, and cinemas. Today the law extends to several areas such as public toilets, children’s playgrounds, non air-conditioned indoor public areas including shopping complexes, office and shops, entertainment nightspots, and underground car parking terminals. Smokers found in violation of these rules may face a penalty in the range of $200-$1,000. The law also requires officials to install signage in areas where smoking is prohibited.

4. Not Flushing the Toilet and Urinating in Elevators are Punishable

Not flushing the toilet after using it is a crime in Singapore and can attract a penalty of $150 or more. Urinating in elevators is also a punishable offence in the country. Elevators in Singapore are equipped with Urine Detecting devices that can detect the smell of urine and close the doors automatically to ensure the offender cannot escape till the police arrives to arrest them. To enforce these rules, the country employs several undercover officers who have the authority to issue on-the-spot fines. These officers often check urinals after it has been used by a suspected offender or install close circuit TV cameras in areas from where they receive complaints.

Epilogue

Apart from rules discussed in this post, find out what other laws you need to follow to ensure your Singapore holiday tour is hassle-free. The Singapore government also recognizes flying kite or playing games in a public road as an offence and the offender can be asked to pay a fine of as much as $5000. To avoid these and other legal issues, read more about different Singaporean laws.