If you are one of the many Filipinos planning on working in Singapore, then it’s important to know what to expect. Singaporean culture is unique, and there are some differences from what you’re used to back at home. Our guide will help make life easier for those who are adjusting to life in Singapore.
Keep on reading to learn more about the Lion City’s culture and how you can adjust to it. Let’s get started!
Contents
- Singapore is a multicultural country but it has its unique culture.
- One of the most common cultural shocks for Filipinos is how Singaporeans don’t use many hand gestures when speaking.
- Personal space tends to be smaller in Singapore than in the Philippines.
- Singaporean culture can be more reserved. The Filipinos are known to be more outgoing, warm and friendly.
- There won’t always be people to talk to Filipino style, even in the workplace.
- Because Singapore is a highly ranked first-world country, there’s less of a tolerance for mistakes like dropping food on the ground or littering.
- Singaporeans are generally known to be more logical, while Filipinos tend to be more emotional and analytical when making decisions.
- Knowing what to expect can make adjusting to life in Singapore easier.
- Tips for Filipinos on Overcoming Cultural Differences in Singapore
- 1. Research the culture and customs of Singapore before your arrival to better understand and prepare for any differences you may encounter.
- 2. Seek out opportunities to learn about Singaporean culture, such as attending cultural events or taking a language class.
- 3. Build a support network of other Filipinos or expats who can provide guidance and help you navigate any challenges that may arise.
- 4. Be open-minded and try to see things from the perspective of the local culture.
- 5. Respect the cultural norms and traditions of Singapore, even if they are different from what you are used to.
- 6. Make an effort to understand and follow the rules and laws of Singapore, as they may differ from those in the Philippines.
- 7. Take advantage of any cultural integration programs or resources offered by your employer to help you adjust to life in Singapore.
- 8. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice if you are having difficulty adjusting to life in Singapore. There are many resources available to assist you in overcoming cultural differences and adapting to your new home.
- Video: 10 Things Not To Do In Singapore Today | Why You Need To Know This?
- Final Thoughts
Singapore is a multicultural country but it has its unique culture.
As an OFW, you will soon realize that your new host country has its own unique culture. Singapore is a multicultural country but it has its unique culture. As a global city-state, Singapore’s diversity and cultural heritage are reflected in its food, language, religion and customs. Having the world at your fingertips can be both exciting and overwhelming at the same time.
If you’re planning to move here for good (or for just a few years), then it pays to understand some basic things about life there so that you don’t end up being shocked when something breaks or doesn’t work properly—or worse still when someone tells you off for doing something wrong!
One of the most common cultural shocks for Filipinos is how Singaporeans don’t use many hand gestures when speaking.
One of the most common cultural shocks for Filipinos is how Singaporeans don’t use many hand gestures when speaking. For Filipinos, it’s not enough to just say something; you also have to add some body language, otherwise you’re going to sound flat and boring. We’re not saying that all Filipino speakers are like this—there are certainly plenty who do not use any hand gestures at all—but even if you belong in this latter category, it will help you adjust to life in Singapore if you try to incorporate some simple gestures into your speech patterns here.
For example: instead of saying “I’m very happy,” try adding something like this: “I’m so happy.” Or if someone asks how your day was and your answer is “It was good,” give them more detail by adding “…and then later on I went out with friends.” These short additions make all the difference! They show sincerity on your part since they indicate that there’s more behind what’s being said than meets the eye (which isn’t always true).
Personal space tends to be smaller in Singapore than in the Philippines.
Personal space tends to be smaller in Singapore than in the Philippines. This is because Singaporeans are more reserved and less talkative than Filipinos. They also tend to be more logical, while Filipinos tend to be more emotional and analytical when making decisions.
In order for you not to feel uncomfortable with the personal space, you should keep your hands off from touching other people’s belongings without their permission. You should also try not to take photos without their consent especially if you are taking photos at a restaurant or any public place where there are other people present, unless of course if someone asks for it or if it is permitted by the owner/manager of that establishment or venue. If necessary ask first before snapping a picture as some places have rules stating that no photography is allowed inside certain institutions like museums and galleries etcetera.
Singaporean culture can be more reserved. The Filipinos are known to be more outgoing, warm and friendly.
The Filipino culture is often more outgoing and warm than the Singaporean one. While Filipinos may be less reserved in their conversations, they can still be friendly and kind. In contrast, Singaporeans tend to be more logical when making decisions while Filipinos tend to be more emotional and analytical.
- The Philippines has a much bigger population than Singapore so it’s not surprising that there are more people here with different beliefs, backgrounds and cultures. Having different backgrounds makes us unique as individuals, but some cultural differences between our two nations should be taken into consideration before you make any significant life changes such as moving abroad or starting your own business here in Singapore!
There won’t always be people to talk to Filipino style, even in the workplace.
You may think that the fact that you’re working with other Filipinos should make it easy for you to act like a Pinoy, but that’s not always so. In fact, a kababayan might be less expressive than he is at home and tend to keep things superficial because of his reserved nature. Your friend might also seem more distant than you’re used to when he’s around others who aren’t part of your party or group and can sometimes seem aloof or uninterested in conversations with you.
Because Singapore is a highly ranked first-world country, there’s less of a tolerance for mistakes like dropping food on the ground or littering.
In Singapore, there is much less tolerance for “mistakes” that would be considered part of normal life in other countries. Dropping food on the ground, for example, is not only considered rude but also disrespectful to others who may come into contact with it later. It’s also unhygienic, as the dirt and germs from your hands get mixed into the food you drop onto the floor.
Finally, if you drop food on the ground consistently enough to warrant comment from others (for example: “Hey! Stop dropping your lunch on everybody’s shoes! You’re going to make them sick!”), you’ll probably want to reconsider whether or not Singapore is right for you.
Singaporeans are generally known to be more logical, while Filipinos tend to be more emotional and analytical when making decisions.
You will find that Singaporeans are generally known to be more logical, while Filipinos tend to be more emotional and analytical when making decisions. Both cultures have their strengths and weaknesses, but the good news is that most of us Filipinos can adapt well in Singapore because we’re used to dealing with constant change.
If you want people to respect your opinion, ask them questions before telling them what they should do. Filipinos tend to speak up even if they don’t know much about the topic (e.g., telling someone how he/she should do something without adequate knowledge on the matter).
Knowing what to expect can make adjusting to life in Singapore easier.
You will be surprised at what you learn, and there are many things to discover about the new culture.
However, being prepared for everything that occurs when living abroad is impossible. As such, it is important to remain open-minded and adapt as much as possible while maintaining your cultural identity. Remember that you are a guest in their country, so try not to take anything too personally!
Tips for Filipinos on Overcoming Cultural Differences in Singapore
1. Research the culture and customs of Singapore before your arrival to better understand and prepare for any differences you may encounter.
It is important to research the culture and customs of Singapore before your arrival in order to better understand and prepare for any differences you may encounter. This can help you to feel more confident and comfortable as you adjust to life in a new country. There are many resources available to help you learn about Singaporean culture, such as online articles and guides, cultural exchange programs, and language classes.
By learning about the customs and traditions of Singapore, you can gain a better understanding of the expectations and behaviors that are considered normal in the local culture. This can help you to avoid misunderstandings or unintentional offenses, and make it easier for you to integrate into your new community. Additionally, by researching the culture and customs of Singapore, you can identify any potential challenges you may face and plan ahead to address them. This can help you to feel more prepared and better equipped to handle any difficulties that may arise as you adapt to life in a new country.
2. Seek out opportunities to learn about Singaporean culture, such as attending cultural events or taking a language class.
Seeking out opportunities to learn about Singaporean culture is a great way to better understand and adapt to life in a new country. This can involve attending cultural events, such as festivals or performances, which can provide an immersive and authentic experience of the local culture. These events can be a fun and enjoyable way to learn about Singaporean customs and traditions, and can also be a great opportunity to meet new people and make connections within the community.
Taking a language class is another way to learn about Singaporean culture and improve your ability to communicate with locals. Singapore has four official languages: English, Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil. While English is widely spoken, learning at least some basic phrases in one of the other languages can be helpful in building relationships and making a positive impression. Language classes can also provide insight into the culture and customs of Singapore through the study of idioms, customs, and other cultural elements that are often embedded in the language.
Overall, seeking out opportunities to learn about Singaporean culture can help you to feel more connected and integrated into your new community, and can also make your experience of living in Singapore more enjoyable and enriching.
Building a support network of other Filipinos or expats can be very helpful in overcoming cultural differences and adapting to life in Singapore. It can be comforting to have a group of people who understand your experiences and can provide guidance and support as you navigate any challenges that may arise. This support network can be a source of encouragement and motivation, and can help you to feel less isolated and more connected to others.
There are many ways to build a support network in Singapore, such as joining Filipino or expat community groups, attending social events or activities, or connecting with others through social media or online forums. It can also be helpful to seek out resources and support services offered by organizations that assist overseas workers, such as the Philippine Embassy in Singapore.
Overall, having a strong support network can make a big difference in your ability to overcome cultural differences and thrive in your new home. It can provide a sense of belonging and connection, and can help you to feel more supported and empowered as you navigate the challenges of living in a new country.
4. Be open-minded and try to see things from the perspective of the local culture.
Being open-minded and trying to see things from the perspective of the local culture can be very helpful in overcoming cultural differences and adapting to life in Singapore. This involves being receptive to new ideas and ways of doing things, and being willing to consider the viewpoints and experiences of others. It can also involve being flexible and willing to adapt to new situations and environments.
By being open-minded, you can learn more about the culture and customs of Singapore and gain a deeper understanding of the local way of life. This can help you to feel more connected and integrated into your new community, and can also make it easier for you to adapt to any differences you may encounter.
Additionally, being open-minded can help you to be more respectful and accepting of the local culture, and can also foster better communication and relationships with locals. This can make your experience of living in Singapore more enjoyable and enriching, and can also help you to feel more at home in your new home.
5. Respect the cultural norms and traditions of Singapore, even if they are different from what you are used to.
Respecting the cultural norms and traditions of Singapore is important in order to show consideration for the local culture and to avoid misunderstandings or unintentional offenses. This involves being mindful of your actions and behaviors, and making an effort to adhere to the customs and expectations of the local culture.
Even if the norms and traditions of Singapore are different from what you are used to, it is important to try to understand and respect them. This can involve learning about the local culture and customs, and making an effort to follow them in your daily life. For example, you may need to adjust to different social norms around greetings, dress codes, or table manners.
By respecting the cultural norms and traditions of Singapore, you can show your appreciation for the local culture and foster better relationships with locals. It can also help you to feel more integrated and accepted in your new home, and can make your experience of living in Singapore more enjoyable and enriching.
6. Make an effort to understand and follow the rules and laws of Singapore, as they may differ from those in the Philippines.
Making an effort to understand and follow the rules and laws of Singapore is important in order to ensure that you are in compliance with local regulations and to avoid any legal issues. It is important to note that the rules and laws of Singapore may differ from those in the Philippines, so it is important to familiarize yourself with them.
There are many resources available to help you understand the rules and laws of Singapore, such as government websites, legal aid organizations, and community groups. It can also be helpful to seek guidance from your employer or other trusted sources if you have questions or concerns.
By making an effort to understand and follow the rules and laws of Singapore, you can ensure that you are in compliance with local regulations and can avoid any legal issues. It is also important to remember that laws and regulations can change over time, so it is important to stay informed and updated on any changes that may affect you.
7. Take advantage of any cultural integration programs or resources offered by your employer to help you adjust to life in Singapore.
Taking advantage of any cultural integration programs or resources offered by your employer can be very helpful in adjusting to life in Singapore. Many employers recognize the importance of helping their employees to adapt to a new culture and may offer resources or support to assist with this process. These resources can vary, but may include language classes, cultural orientation sessions, or networking events.
By participating in these types of programs, you can learn more about the culture and customs of Singapore, gain practical skills and knowledge, and make connections with others who are also adjusting to life in a new country. This can help you to feel more confident and prepared as you navigate any cultural differences you may encounter, and can also make your experience of living in Singapore more enjoyable and enriching.
If your employer does not offer any cultural integration resources, you may wish to seek out other organizations or community groups that offer support for overseas workers. There are many resources available to help you adjust to life in Singapore, and taking advantage of these resources can be very beneficial in overcoming cultural differences and thriving in your new home.
8. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice if you are having difficulty adjusting to life in Singapore. There are many resources available to assist you in overcoming cultural differences and adapting to your new home.
It is normal to feel overwhelmed or uncertain when adjusting to a new culture, and it is important to remember that many resources are available to help you overcome any challenges you may encounter. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice if you have difficulty adjusting to Singapore life. Many organizations and community groups offer support and guidance for overseas workers, and these resources can be beneficial in overcoming cultural differences and adapting to your new home.
Some examples of resources that may be available to you include:
- Cultural exchange programs or language classes
- Employee assistance programs or counseling services
- Community groups or organizations for overseas workers
- Legal aid organizations or government agencies
By seeking out and utilizing these resources, you can get the support and guidance you need to overcome any challenges you may be facing, and to thrive in your new home. Remember, you are not alone; many people and organizations are ready to help you succeed in Singapore.
Video: 10 Things Not To Do In Singapore Today | Why You Need To Know This?
In this video, you’ll learn about the team things you shouldn’t do (as part of adjusting to life and culture here) in Singapore. Before visiting Singapore, it’s important to be aware of the rules and regulations that are specific to the country. These rules and regulations are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of both visitors and residents, and it is important to follow them in order to avoid any problems or difficulties while in Singapore.
To help you prepare for your visit to Singapore, we’ve compiled a list of things you should avoid doing while in the country. These may include:
- Bringing illegal drugs or controlled substances into the country
- Engaging in activities that are considered offensive or inappropriate, such as public displays of affection or nudity
- Bringing in certain types of food or plant products that are restricted or banned in Singapore
- Littering or engaging in other forms of irresponsible behavior in public
- Failing to follow traffic laws or engaging in reckless behavior on the roads
- Engaging in activities that are harmful to the environment, such as poaching or illegal logging
By being aware of these rules and regulations and making an effort to follow them, you can help to ensure that your visit to Singapore is enjoyable and problem-free.
Final Thoughts
The best way to deal with these cultural differences is by being aware of them, and knowing how to adapt. For example, if you know that Singaporean culture is more reserved than Filipino culture, then it will be easier for you to adjust. If you’re not aware of the differences and try to force yourself into a situation where you feel uncomfortable, then it could lead to problems down the road!
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