I spent my early years in Singapore in the 80s, and remember at 7-8 years old browsing Toa Payoh Central by myself, going home when I was ready. Now, living in Australia with a 7yo daughter, there's no way I'd let her do similar here. But I still feel safe when we visit Singapore, keeping in mind our activities are the family friendly kind.
as a woman who was born and raised in singapore, i agree that it's strict and there are a lot of rules, but those rules help keep our citizens in check. i've been to many countries around the world and although i loved being a tourist in the US and Europe and the holidays were always fun, i honestly felt rather unsafe there even in the daytime. there were people drugged up roaming the streets, fights, and if you don't keep your guard up you get easily targeted. i would say that men dont understand how important feeling 'safe' in a country is to women. my husband wants us to live and work overseas in the UK and while i think it would be an interesting experience, i know i would totally miss the feeling of plugging into music and walking alone at night (like what i do frequently in singapore).
Hello! Thank you so much for taking time to share your thoughts. Yes, I would say in an unsafe environment I still feel less vulnerable as man. If I felt unsafe I wouldn’t want to be there - so it makes total sense. Thank you again for sharing!
Many of us in SG feel safe that we may take safety for granted when we are overseas. So when my daughter and son went overseas for their student exchange programs, I had to remind them to be careful and alert of their environment wherever they are.
To your point of the corporate punishment: When my family and I lived in Singapore, and when I was at school there, it wasn’t never “feared”. In a way that we don’t let the corporal punishment help us decide how we are going to behave in a daily basis. The same way how in the UK, most of us don’t let the threat of jail time determine how we live. I suppose. When Singapore declared independence from Britain in 1959 and from Malaya in 1965, LKY saw that for Singapore to survive, it had to adopt a position of strength in order to prevent for Singapore from fading into the background against regional powers such as Indonesia and Malaysia. A lot of what you talked about in this video, I think, comes from that determination in 1965.
Definitely, and it takes commitment and development over time to ensure this becomes culture. There are other contributing factors I’ll be discussing in coming weeks! 😁
Singapore is very safe for women in general. However, like a few other female commenters, I would agree that it depends on which part of Singapore you are referring to and at what hours. It’s only when I went to the UK for my overseas studies that I developed a sense of “heightened vigilance”, knowing that it isn’t Singapore and I can’t take my personal safety (not just for my sex, but also my race, and my physical height) for granted there. I felt so relieved after returning to Singapore after my studies because I could just exercise “regular” and “sensible” vigilance here.
Thank you for sharing these thoughts :) I'm curious to know which areas and what times? Very interesting hearing your experiences abroad. thank you again!
@@jontytan For school-going children: When I was a student, I've heard of cases where voyuerists have hung around schools or certain hangouts where students frequent after school, such as fast food restaurants or shopping malls. Being from a single-sex school myself, I made it a point to be a bit more careful when I have to walk around alone in my school uniform, but when hanging in a group of friends, it's not so bad. Being in uniform made one a very visible target. Men who might cat-call or get into fistfights usually do so either in an inebriated state, or in locations where alcohol is sold. I've not personally experienced this myself. However, I do stay in a neighbourhood where there are many nightclubs, and it might be rational to not venture out there during the wee hours. Another factor might also be the general socioeconomic status of the neighbourhood. The wealthier the neighbourhood (or HDB estate), the more likely you will be spared from having to witness or experience incidents that might endanger you, whether male or female. I think these factors are rather universal, just that in Singapore, we do not have to deal with a drug/gun control problem/significant homelessness, citizens by and large abide by and respect the strict laws, and in my opinion, we function with an East Asian cultural modus operandi.
This are well thought out and good comments - thank you. Lots for me to consider. I’m wondering whether I explore a few of these neighbourhoods and see how I feel in them. 🤔
@@jontytan Glad that they've helped you! Personally, I would say I live in a rather prime district and have always been in the "elite school" crowd, but my chosen profession has brought me to work with society's most disadvantaged and forgotten folk, and my professional life for the past decade has been interacting with people in the "hidden" parts of Singapore; a lot of the glitz and glamour that Singapore is known for overshadow these places. Being in my position definitely has given me a broader perspective and not a rosy picture of Singapore. Sometimes my life is quite paradoxical because I keep having to switch between interacting with my own social circle/family (upper middle class and above) and those that I work with (lower ends of the spectrum). You could do a compare and contrast between the general conditions of different HDB estates and landed property neighbourhoods. Many times, the physical enviroment of an estate is dependent on who runs the place (i.e., politician) or the age of the HDB estate. Newer estates tend to have young married couples/families; whereas mature estates have more senior folks. There could be stark differences in the infrastructure thus affecting living spaces and the general atmosphere of the neighbourhood. Despite being such a small country, there is actually a lot of variety of living experiences, I would say.
Very interesting. Yes I like your thoughts and your perspective. Your profession sounds very interesting. Perhaps you could share more? Either on here or at contact@jontytan.com - I feel a project coming on for me! Heheh.
Always a fine line on one hand wanting them to totally believe the world is kind but the other hand needing them to understand differences of countries and cultures. I’m so amazed at the sheer volume of people in public places, yet I am experiencing total kindness here in Singapore.
Never take safety in Singapore for granted. Low Crime does not mean No Crime.Still need to be caution when travelling at night in Singapore esp. Park & Industrial Area. Strict rules and regulations + heavy penalties & punishment (death sentence & canning) let people think twice before committing any crime. Also there were many CCTV around the whole island.
Agreed - always best to stay alert and not to become complaisant. But good to highlight, celebrate and learn from the safe environment cultivated here. Also, thank you for watching and commenting on here! Appreciate your consistent support for wonderlust too 😊🙏🏼
But do the CCTV work? For the past more than 10 years, residents have been complaining about a trouble spot in an open field just next to their blocks to the MP and who was also the Mayor mind you but nothing gets done and the smokers and beer drinkers continue to haunt, create din and litter the whole place every night. Whole pile of empty beer cans of every cheap type are still lying as a small pool for breeding mosquitoes for the past half a month and don't bother about feedback as the town council pushes to the HDB and the HDB pushes to the town council. Very much like Malaysia.
@Tang T - you are clearly passionate about these things being left out and not cleared away. We all need to do our part - we regularly pick trash nearby, you could have collected some too?
You have turned to making political statements when I’m not being political, I’m being human. If you’re not prepared to take responsibility, why complain?
Hi Jonty, what an interesting topic ! We lived previously in Hong Kong for 18 years as well as had short stints of living in London through work. I have to admit, London late night can feel unsafe for a woman on her own and taking precautions like making sure there were colleagues with me or a taxi from one point to another at night. Coming home to Singapore made me appreciate how lucky we are here, especially with 2 grown daughters who regularly hit the night spots on weekends. Low crime doesn't mean taking safety for granted - there was one tragic murder of a lone woman jogger at Bukit Timah park, though this was a long time ago. Crimes like Up Skirting, hidden videocams in toilets or cases of molest do happen in Singapore. The key for a woman alone (anywhere in the world) is to be sensible and aware of the surroundings. Why walk down a dark street alone if you don't have to, or drink to excess, then being unable to defend herself from a groper ? Thank you for including the fact that we try to be respectful of others, of their property rather than just fearing the punishments. In this age of materialism and the elitist mindset, it's getting harder to teach the younger generation about honesty, being kind and considerate. Can't wait for your next topic !! My single women friends have SO much to say about Dating in Singapore and it's horrors 😆 Aida.
Hello Aida! Thank you so much for taking time to comment. I’d love to gather some of the stories from your girl friends about dating in Singapore. I’ve been writing that episode but it’s not ready yet… perhaps you might be able to reach out to me at contact@jontytan.com .. thank you so much for watching - I hope you enjoy my other topics so far!
@@jontytan Well why not try to watch on youtube muslim who have left Islam speaking out against their ideology from ex muslim of America, Norway, Infidel Noodle from Australia, Friendly muslim from Canada, Apostate Prophet and maybe you can learn from them about their teaching
1 word : HOPE. I have travelled to USA, UK, Israel, Thailand, Thailand, Philippines, Japan, Netherland. What I feel is that when large segment of the society lack hope of a better future, the value tradeoff of trepassing the law is low. Wherelse when the society has hope for a better future, even with lax laws, people does not resort to crimes.
A society can only have hope when the current situation of where they live is a place that offers opportunity to have a decent education, a decent job, a simple roof over their heads which they could call home, and able to put food on the table for the family everyday, where everyone especially children and ladies can safely move around without fears of being mugged or taking covers from gunshots, a place where the country and its people are protected and well being taken care off. Only then can they place their hope and look at a assured future.
Real freedom is when a person is able to walk through the streets without feeling unsafe By the way,the authorities has always remind us,low crime doesn't mean no crime. We are not perfect,but we try our best.
We have already lost this safe feeling even as Singaporeans since 20 years ago when the foreign hordes were let in. Look even the coffeeshops close at around 8-9 these days when before the late 90s the majority would stay open even as late as 1 a.m. and the whole estate would still be buzzing with people in public up to 10 p.m Now almost everyone shut themselves in after. 7.30 p.m except for duped foreigners and foreign troublemakers.
@@tangt4860 We were worse back then. Ppl went back early nowadays because more things to do at home. Netflix,gaming etc; In the 80s or 90s,less entertainment so ppl go out more often.
@@leongyet9896many who grew up and lived during that era would disagree with your take. Even old pictures and videos show a very vibrant society though agreeably less modern Singapore which was not as developed as Yangon, Bangkok and Saigon back then. Plus you aren't aware of this phenomenon that when HK Man in the Net was broadcasted every Sunday in the late 70s early 80s , many food vendors and hawkers simply went ' on strike' just to go back home to watch it on colour TV.
@@tangt4860 You contradicting yourself isn't it? One point you said during the older times people went out to enjoy themselves and now you said they close early to go back and catch TV shows? You ok or not?
Thank you for your sharing of this video. I think one of the factor why Singapore is safe is due to all men in Singapore when they reach 16-20 years old, we have to be enrolled to serve the army for 2-3 years... In those years of training, we are taught to be respectful and learn to protect what we have in Singapore. We learn to protect our citizen in all ways. Therefore when we see someone doing wrong in public... We as ex-soldiers, will try to stand up and handle the situations.
Hello! Thank you for your thoughts on this - I hadn't considered NS! Very interesting indeed. I like this thought. The other day I was giving a presentation on diversity, equity, inclusion and justice and I had a very interesting conversation with an Indian Singaporean about NS being a training ground for respect too. I love it. Thank you!
@@jontytan Yeah ... If your son Milo gonna be a Singaporean... He would have to enrolled to be a soldier too when he grows up... Its a mandatory duty for all man in Singapore.. Cheers
I stayed in Singapore all my life and travelled around the world and the one moment I felt Singapore is the safest place in the world is when I always see girls going jogging or walking late at night at the nearby park at 10pm up to even midnight.
safe? A 14 year old male student just got hit while crossing the green light by a BMW today. Sure there are no major guns or stabbings but with so many crazy people from around the world packed in the crowded island, it is only a matter of time.
@@tangt4860 I think you shouldn’t lump deliberate crime with accidents together as that will make the entire world all unsafe since accidents are everywhere.
@@jontytan it is just the way it is. How do you feel when you begin to read all this in the news and you get to learn a lot more if you make more friends.
As a generalization, yes Singapore is a safe country. But safety must always be taken in the context of the exact place you are at and the situation around you. A freind of mine was molested in a crowded bus some years go. The bus was crowded and people were standing very close. In such a situation a man my lose his self control. So please practice intelligent safety no matter which country or place you are in.🙂
I agree with you that it’s safe in Singapore and it’s partly due to our multi cultural society as well as the stringent policing. Enjoy your stay in Singapore. CHEERS.
Part of the reason is CCTV are installed around the island-as you mentioned you will pay high penalty if you are caught especially for harassment. Due to the high number of CCTV installed have you observe there are low pickpocket and burglary cases but more while collar crime relatively. (Singapore have her way of governing the country-as an expatriate and foreigner one may find the law is too strict, note how the foreign ministry in answering the Virgin airline Richard Branson's statement on drug penalty in Singapore)
Yes, I found it interesting that those who don’t live in the Singaporean society want to make comments about how it is done here.. I personally hope that Singapore keeps its strict laws about drug trafficking.
8:19 as a tourist I got this also. National days speech just before the National Anthem was something to be admired from across the world. Love and respect to Singapore. Very interesting video 👍
Hello Steve - thank you so much for commenting! I agree with you - in fact all speeches uphold values of honour and respect - even when referring to the opposition parties!
Chinese, especially, don't make the 1st move so, foreigners may think they are unfriendly/unapproachable but once you break the ice, things are different. It is the culture & upbringing.
As Singapore started from scratch after gaining independence, the govt wanted its citizens to be upright, productive n moral people. So 1st corruption, crime, drugs n poverty was cleaned up best as can be. Then standardised education for all children with traditional moral lessons taught as well. So as most Singaporeans had a higher level of living, with low poverty, unemployment n crime; it all lead to a Happier n Safer environment... so much so that people are really taking it for granted. Even I never develop the practice of leaving my belongings alone unless its not valuable. Competency is something many Singaporeans have developed towards crime, thinking it will never happen to them. As the Police keeps reminding us... Low Crime doesn't mean No Crime.
Thank you for taking time to comment - I like the historical insights here. I totally agree that low crime doesn’t mean no crime too - always best to be vigilant, but good to not live in fear 😊
Let me share another aspect here. Many western media or UA-camrs, when talking about the economic miracle of Singapore, tend to say its at the expense of Freedom of speech or politics. Is this true? Yes but not in such as a drastic manner. People often forget that Singapore as a nation or country, only exist as One city on a small island. We have no economic of scale/size (sorry if I'm using the wrong terms here). Anything that disrupts a small part of the population, can potentially bring down the whole country! To give a simile; Imagine 100ppl on a small boat, 1 rocks the boat n the whole boat capsizes. 100ppl on a cruise ship, 1 rocks the ship n it still stays afloat. In the 60s, we had racial riots between the Chinese n Malays that killed n injured many people, all due to political, racial n religious differences at that time before independence. This is why the govt banned illegal gatherings, strikes n riots; in order to prevent the crippling of the country. Instead, efforts were made to ensure fair workers' rights, religious harmony n explaining political policies. And a part of this was ensuring harmful n false speech is not tolerated as well in order to protect everyone equally. For example: There are now energy strikes in France over the inflation. Now imagine if ALL of France is actually just one of these city, can this "mini country" of France survive at all? 9 men was just protesting n blocking the entrance of a building in Singapore. The police stopped them n if they r really lucky, they will be given a slap on the wrist. But at the same time, the MOM (Ministry Of Manpower) will look into their complaints, the ministry which these men should have approached in the 1st place. Lastly, after 9/11, great emphasise was communicated that these were acts committed by wrong followers of Islam n therefore they had no bearing on our fellow Muslim brothers n sisters. This understanding helped ensure no Islamic phobia or blame arose, again helping keep peace, harmony n stability in our country. All these efforts are ALWAYS ongoing n never taken for granted by the govt. And if this current govt continues to perform well, then they deserve to be voted in. If not, they should be voted out. Our late Mr Lee Kuan Yew said that. OMG sorry for the long rambling. My apologies. ;p
No need to apologise! I really appreciate your thoughts here!! Yes - someone else mentioned the not-rocking-the-small-boat issue and I totally get it and agree. I love the thoughts about intentionally ensuring no Islamophobia and the response the nation had to riots. Thank you so much for sharing these. More food for thought!
Yes, respect and honour is what drives a lot of what is going on in Singapore. But then, lets face it, the world is just a lot more fun if women and girls can flit about the world feeling pretty and doing what makes them feel happy. Oh, and listening to a sensitive, thoughtful bloke reflecting on the nuances of the world he lives in is always fun and thought provoking if not great click bait.
Thanks for the comment! Hahah. I’m an emotional guy lol. Not click bait but I’m glad you were drawn to click! Heheh. Hope you enjoy my future content too. 😊
ive a primary school going daughter. when she does go from 1 place to another alone, i must say we are more worried about cars than people. still, it's always better to be safe than sorry. some caution is still required. even here
@@jontytan it doesnt help that children were taught to raise their hand when crossing the roads. my kid thinks that just because she rose her hand, the cars will auto stop for her....
On culture. I do believe in Mengzi tale of his mom moving 3 times to the right place for him to shine. Milo is expose to the 'right' value here and learn the same whether you explain to him or not If he's in an area where everyone does graffiti, it will be a norm to him. Same thing we explained to our kids while we were overseas or JB. Possibly Australia is another place I feel almost as safe as SG. Well maybe before midnight. Lol
Firstly, thank you so much for coming over to this channel - we recognise your handle from wonderlust 😊 … totally agree with you. There was graffiti in the UK and our kids never mentioned it. It just so happens that they haven’t seen any for 2 and a half years!
Still, please don’t take it for granted or become complacent. Although Spore is safe, there are still crazy people around. Always stay alert. When leaving your bags on the tables unattended to chope a place, pls make sure that you take the valuable stuffs along with you. The message given by the government here - low crime doesn’t mean no crime.
imo - (1) actual enforcement of laws; (2) less valuation of one gender over another from birth (still there but not as pronounced as in other countries); (3) a high percentage of women who are educated and working which leads to women valuing themselves and being valued as equals (yes, equality is still work in progress here). crime against women still exists here and more can definitely be done but, compared to many places, it is definitely moving in the right direction
Hello - thank you for coming over to this channel to watch and interact too! I really like your thoughts - they open up more conversation on this too. I hadn't considered education but I think it's a really good point. And I would agree - Singapore is not perfect, but heading in the right direction.
@@jontytan also education has allowed singaporean women to enter the workforce, allowing them to be financially independent which then leads to greater sense of self, which then leads to them seeing themselves as being helpess or victims i.e. willing to take action. predators look for helpless victims because predators are largely bullies. also, your POVs, as mine are, are also tinged by being male. the ladies may have another say :)
Hi Jonty, Very interesting thoughts about safety in Sg and how kids growing up here (not exposed to adversities) will not be prepared for the real world outside of Sg. Sg has come a long way since independence to build a safe environment to live in where there is proper mutual respect for other individuals regardless of race, language or religion and also respect for properties both private & public. Safety for females need more than a culture of mutual respect. It also need a special effort and establishment of equal rights of women enjoying the same rights and opportunity for education, employment etc. and to move away from old traditions / culture that oppressed women. It also needs legislation like Women’s Charter to protect ladies. In Eastern & Asian culture we need to remove the concepts or mindsets such as women’s purposes are for child bearing & taking care of kids, cooking for the family, washing & ironing clothes, treatment as 2nd class being, etc. Also need to remove the misconcept that men is the privilege being. In this modern age, a country needs to show and uphold that women are to be respected. This is needed for a paradigm shift in mindset. Let women with the skills and ability to hold office both in private settings, govt agencies and also political office. I m very happy that we have a lady President in Sg and she is a Malay. It shows the world we practices what we preach. As for kids growing up in safe Sg, it’s necessary to bring them abroad traveling to developing countries to expose them to poverty and unruliness where law & order is not the day. In Italy & Spain even in UK u will see gypsy kids pick pocketing in a group. In some ASEAN countries there are slumps where people scow for food in rubbish dumps. Then your kids will compare and appreciate what they are enjoying. Which is why our govt always remind us not to take our safety, prosperity and security for granted. We took more than 50 yrs to achieve this, and must strive together to ensure its sustained.
Equal rights is a huge consideration I hadn't thought of. Thank you for bringing this up. Definitely important to educate our children on the world outside of Singapore too. Thank you for taking time to share your thoughts - given me lots to think about!
Hi Jonty, during lunch time 12pm u may want to bring your kids to areas where Bangladeshi workers are having their lunch. U will notice they only have 1 dish of meat plus plenty of rice and curry only. They do so to safe money to send home to their families. Our ancestors came to Sg / Malaysia to earn a living in same manner too. This may be a starter lesson on poverty when a country is poor and the value of hard work, frugality, love for the family, earning a decent honest salary, and value of money.
Quite possibly... I feel there is still racial discrimination here, just not as pronounced as in other countries. I think having laws that are enforced is super important though. Thank you for sharing!
@@jontytan One cannot control human behaviours. We do have racial discrimination behaviour occasionally, but it will be stamped out immediately. Singapore is a multi religious & race country. It will be disastrous if there’s a community riot because of these behaviour. There was a riot in ‘Little India’ in 2013 you can read in UA-cam, involving an accident where a drunk Indian man was involved in an accident with a private bus. Anger & rumours spread like wild fire. The bus was set on fire, 2 police cars were overturned by the angry crowd. 300~400 rioters were involves. Many of these foreign workers were send back a month later after the investigation. The sales of liquor & cut off time for consuming in this and other areas were implemented to this day. Singapore do not allowed the ‘boat’ to be rock indiscriminately. It will sink. It’s a very small boat.
I really like what you said there - Singapore is a small boat - we mustn't rock it or it will sink. Great analogy. Thank you for commenting and interacting with me!
As a metropolitan city where foreigners from all walks of life come to Singapore, it is impossible to tell people what to do and what not to do, so strict laws are a deterrent to keep people from committing crimes here.
SG is among the top 5 safest countries in the world. This may be a blessing (if you never leave Singapore) or a curse (if you're trying to go on holiday). If Singapore is safest, then everywhere else will be less safe. But you go on holiday to relax. Not to become hypervigilent and worried about your safety! So... I can only go on holidays to Japan cos they are also very safe. On values... Here, "outrage of modesty" is a crime and perpetrators of outrage of modesty are charge in court. This may not be so in other places. Certainly, India ("rape capital"), women have been assaulted and molested with impunity and the reality is that it is difficult for these victims to get attention from the law, let alone justice. That contributes to the "culture of safety" -- how much of the little indignities would society accept and tolerate? That tells would-be perpetrators what they can get away with. Now the crime that is being given ample publicity (here in SG) are those upskirt photos. Again, the willingness of our laws to go after these "crimes" sends a message - these are our values. Same for gum on our train doors - we are serious about it. It's the "broken window" hypothesis in social science (sociology). If you tolerate one broken window pane, you'll tolerate another, and its downhill from then on. The leaving valuables (to chope places) also suggests that Singaporeans believe that they are socially mobile: "I respect other's property because one day I might have the same valuables, and then I would like others to respect my property." In a society that is less socially mobile (or where people do not believe that they are socially mobile), the attitude may be, "why should I respect other's property? The only way I would ever get that is if I take it now while the fool is not looking!"
Hello! Thanks for sharing - these are really good points you raise. Agreed - even the minor laws are enforced and so people wouldn’t be prepared to commit the minor crimes. Do watch my latest video on legalised prostitution- I’d be interested in your thoughts!
I have intention to visit the UK someday but not sure if my friends are interested. So i intend to go alone after seeing an acquaintance took pictures and tiktoks of himself. Now I am having 2nd thoughts after hearing what said.
Its not just women who feel unsafe. Good man also feel unsafe but we often only hear about how it affects women. Men just kinda have deal with it. I'm not trying to downplay what woman feel but I think it's important to talk about how the issue is affecting both sides.
Honestly, growing up as a young girl and woman in SG didn't feel that safe for me. I was teased, cat-called at, stalked, peeped at while showering after a swim in a public pool, and also exposed to at my doorstep when I got home late after work. And mind you I'm not one to dress provocatively, drink, or draw attention to myself. It's the same situation with some of my girlfriends too. The level of safety is different when you live in an HDB estate, and it very much depends on which area you live in too. So while SG appears generally safe, you do need to exercise caution and be very aware of your surroundings as a female. I'd strongly recommend preparing your daughter for some of these scenarios and how to deal with them. Especially when she's of school-going age. Much of the harassment me and my peers encountered happened while we were all school girls in primary, secondary, and even college levels. I felt compelled to share because I do think nothing is more dangerous than being lulled into a false sense of security.
Thank you for taking time to share this. I'm so sorry for what you have experienced. I hope that we can be better in the future. I found it interesting that you differentiated living in an HDB estate - you feel these are less safe sometimes? I'd love to hear more. I'd be interested in knowing which areas you'd say are less safe too. Thank you again for sharing :)
Bad hats can appear anywhere, not necessary only at HDB estates. Perverts will plan their ruse at secluded quiet spots where they won’t be easily caught. Also they also watch and track which target is usually alone.
Too many foreigners and even local elites will call you bluff because they have been so brainwashed by MSM propaganda and paid advertisements overseas.
When people live in a safety zone is very hard for them to see the world is not as safety as they think ...Where people who have live in Ghettos they know the world is not as safe and they have grown how to handle the situation ...FYI where ever you go to other countries is the best to know whether is safe or not safe is better to have your belongings and money close to you especially money when there is a bad situation you have these monies to either call someone and can be able to handle the situation ....
Totally agreed - always best not to become complaisant. There is value in being careful. What I'm talking about here is the overarching culture which is very positive and very safe, comparatively speaking.
Nothing Singapore can impart to the UK with regards to safety. UK people are brought up differently from people in Singapore. This is key. The beliefs, the culture, the liberties, etc create the society. Example. The failed attempts by Thatcher in no litter laws from Singapore. It is the liberties acceptable.
I think you're onto something here actually - I think Singapore can offer a lot - but it is in culture creating and honour and valuing. The UK could learn a lot. These are the foundations of safety.
@@jontytan I lived & worked for a stretch of nearly 20 years in Europe, mainly the British Isles. I can tell you, the pride of the British stands in the way. No body does it better than a true Brit. You need to pass Norman Tebbit's cricket test, if you think yourself anywhere a Brit. Nay. Nothing from Singapore cuts it. Never from a ex colony. The stiff upper lip. Die die. Try denying Brits from their pub culture?
I think that’s what I’m saying - should the UK be able to adopt some of these Singaporean values, it would change the UK for good… it would be very difficult and take a long time.
As a woman who regularly visits Singapore I feel safe at all hours especially late. I appreciate an emptier train isn't something I shouldn't use. Something I'd never do in Sydney alone if at all. Your laws regarding punishment do work as consequences are very real & known. Doesn't mean crime isn't there just consequences are respected.
"safer particularly for women?" idiot no-brain muscled hubby ! a 25yo sg female after party 2am over in orchard road, walked alone here, she so proud shouted,"sg is safest for women"!. suddenly a local indian man 40yo, just released from prison, stopped her and impersonated as a plain clothes police threatened her of suspect drugs on her, dragged her and raped her twice till 5am... . many culprits dont care consequence, they take risk and chance
a A-star female scientist from china 28yo after work 8pm walked in grass under buona vista MRT, she was robbed stabbed by knief many times from behind and she losed her kidneys need dialysis, culprit not caught by police. a malaysian clerk 23yo after work walk home 9pm and she was robbed stabbed by knief many times, she losed one of her kidney... .
To fact check - the 28 year old was walking at Commonwealth and was not robbed. There were no reports of kidney loss. I cannot find any reports like the second one you mentioned. I am sad to hear that no perpetrator has been caught from the first incident. Safety is something to appreciate, not to take for granted. Always best be be vigilant and alert.
@@jontytan This is just my experience travelling every few mths to Sg (except when borders where closed Singapore/Australia) for 9 yrs as my partner is Singaporean. I've slways felt safe which is something I don't in Sydney.
Like to highlight a SG law wrt women and safety: Outrage of Modesty- a woman can claim that against a man if he touches her or makes her uncomfortable etc and if the police charges the man for outrage of modesty, the Courts will rule in favour of the victim and punishment is harsher too. I still see posters in buses from the Police Force urging women to report or speak out if they are molested in buses. Many questions come to mind, are molestation cases going unreported? Do the authorities feel that are more victims suffering in silence? Some talk about NS or army “training ground” to respect law and authority yet the same army also teaches the unwritten golden rule: “do anything you want but don’t get caught”.
Thank you for putting forward these ideas and thoughts. I had always seen the posters and announcements as both a deterrent and a promotion of safety and protection. I do wonder how many women are not reporting it. It’s a horrible thing to happen and I guess many wouldn’t want to relive a nasty experience again.
Use to have Moral education during kindergarten and primary schools. Yes whole period of it........ Singaporeans are really good targets overseas because of their naivety.. I seen and heard enough horror stories from tour leaders bringing Singaporean tours groupes to Europe.
Yes, unfortunately many places in the world do not have the innocence that Singaporeans have. It is a blessing but also can be a struggle abroad. We must continue to educate each other on how to be vigilant.
because Singapore is a place where Feminism thrives, citizens toe the line, men are taught not smack women around at a young age? it is generally safe for all citizens but crimes do occur.
You still have to be aware in your surroundings. Especially at night even as a guy. Trust your instinct. I encountered a group of youth at night and felt off. Cross the road immediately and there was a gang fight with another gang coming from another street. Noted they are not after me but I don't want to be collateral damage . That was that 1 incident my whole life. But you are right, I am training my daughter for the real world beyond SG. Someone who took public transport home since Primary 2 alone
Well before Singapore attained sovereignty and full independence in 1965, the Southern China immigrants populated Singapore en mass , in particular the Cantonese speaking group. Generally speaking, the Cantonese Chinese have strong family bond and values. These social-family bonds and values heavily empathize economic success , personal responsibility , and respect for others. Not surprisingly, the combined annual crime rate of Singapore, HK, Shenzhen and Guangzhou is less than the combined daily crime rate of NYC, Philly, Chicago, and LA. As Confucius noted over one thousand year ago, more laws, numerous police, and harsh punishment do not create a civil society - strong family-cultural values do.
@@jontytan Research on Confucius's family ethics Chen Jinghua The family is the cell and basic organization of society. Whether the relationship between family members can be harmonious or not depends on whether there is a reasonable principle for handling family relations, that is, family ethics. Family ethics is not only the basic principle of adjusting family relations and maintaining family harmony, but also an important guarantee for social harmony and stability. As a country with a Confucian cultural tradition of more than 2,000 years, China has always respected the Confucian family ethics created by Confucius in a long-term traditional society. Although its content has been profitable or even revised with the changes of the times and the needs of rulers, neither the purpose nor the core content has not been fundamental. Change. Taking "benevolence" as the principle and "courtesy" as the norm in family ethics relations, Confucius designed the dimension of family ethics, including the basic ideas of family ethics such as father and son filial piety, husband and righteous wife, brother and brother-in-brother respect, sacrificial ethics, family ethics, etc. Influenced by the social structure and cultural concepts of the pre-Qin period, Confucius' family ethics has the characteristics of paying obvious attention to blood relationship, which is mainly reflected in family orientation, family supremacy, hierarchical order, family-country integration, etc. The family has always been an important field of human ethical and moral life. Traditional Confucianism regards the reconciliation of family relations and the rectification of family life as the basis for governing the country and the world. Therefore, Confucian thinkers and politicians attach great importance to family ethics education. It is used as a way to educate family ethics through demonstration, education persuasion, and politics. Confucius family ethics is neither an eternal truth nor a worthless mess. In the process of China's contemporary social transformation and family ethics reconstruction, according to the inheritance characteristics of culture and special cultural national conditions, we should adopt an ancient and modern scientific attitude to systematically sort out the ethics of the Confucius family. After in-depth processing, we should explore its rich connotation in line with human nature and still have modernity. The core content of value and give it a new connotation of the times, making it the theoretical basis and ethical reference for building a harmonious family and a harmonious society. From the perspective of Marxist philosophy, this paper reorganizes the family ethics of Confucius, takes its essence and removes its dros. Combined with the characteristics of family ethical relations tending to be simple, family ethical relations tending to be equal and democratic, the axis of family ethical relations from parent-child to husband and wife, and from parents to children, we correctly understand the contradiction between one-child burden and filial piety, personal standard and family responsibilities in family life. The contradiction between the freedom of marriage and the rising divorce rate, the contradiction between matter and over spirit, etc., fully excavate the positive factors in Confucius family ethics, so that they can give full play to their due value in solving practical family contradictions and problems and building social ethics. ......
I am a Singaporean and have been on this earth for 55 years. Its true that our laws are pretty strict but it is because of those laws that we are safe. There are alot of discussion about the death penalty for drug traffickers. I am FOR the death penalty. Violence always go in-hand-in with drugs. Stay away from drugs and u will have nothing to worry about death penalty finding u. If u have the time, read up on the The Singapore Story by LKY. In it, he explained why certain policies they made were not popular but necessary. As for the Johor crime rate, I understand from my Malaysian friends that majority of those who committed the crimes in JB are illegal immigrants (from neighbouring countries) who were either jobless or drug addicts.
Yes and No. Yes, overall people in Singapore is well mannered, well educated, mature and not cheating in business, almost zero fraud, honesty chart is good compare to other countries. No, when it comes to woman man relationship, I heard some men are playboy to women and may have issues cheating relationships.
Dear mr Monty tab, you should consider seriously getting back your citizenship. Your daughter will be more recognized n receive more job opportunities here in singapore. I myself have two boys with singapore n Finnish citizenship, n I have no intention of letting my boys stay as Finnish citizens knowing what I know.
Hahaha. He gets that a lot! The drink isn’t so common in the UK - and when he was born we didn’t intend on moving home 😂😂 sometimes his friends say “stop drinking yourself!!”
That’s a fair assumption. I guess it depends on different mindsets of westerners. I grew up in the UK and feel very comfortable with the rules here and them being upheld 😊
Actually, there's a word that Singaporeans (especially the men) would readily understand... "automatic". It is a term used in regularly when the men serve their National Service. It meant do the right thing without being told or reminded. I guess National Service does instill better self-discipline. Young men who have not served were also influenced by this mentality by either their families or friends on such ideas.
Many good interaction given below .l do agree , but do remember mishap will happen to anyone any time .No doubt Singapore look safe but after covid I don't feel so .Too much anger , desperate people in fact all over the world .so advice vigilance,alert in all time .
I will not feel safe to leave my bag unattended in crowded areas especially in touristy areas. You can never know who or what kind of people are there too.
@@jontytan Although they are rare, petty thefts do happen in Singapore now and then. Usually involving shoplifting. Snatch thieves are almost unheard of. I imagine that for people who live in a country where snatch thieves are common, seeing unattended wallets and phones, on a spur of the moment, will somehow make taking the items more tempting. Locals are more aware that such crimes are generally solved within days if not within hours hence dampen the temptation to commit such petty crimes.
Im a cop here. We will trace and find the bad guys when they are vulnerable at home in their underpants....NOBODY Likes That....ha ha ha but seriously everybody here hav jobs, house and healthcare so nobody gonna do much property crime just occasional fights perpetuated by drunkeness...having said that however ive seen some worse cases so Low Crime Does Not Mean No Crime...
I'd say staring is very different to making eye contact. However, it's important to understand our context - when eye contact and looking at people could feel threatening etc.
@@jontytan you are totally right. Most staring incidents in SG are becos of silliness, but mostly are become those men thinks they can TAKE ON other, out of pride.
@@jontytan the thing is why world people be threaten by staring? Probably these people has very low self esteem and after always thinking that some one is after them.
No always the case - I think there are experiences that can make people feel less safe. And there are types of staring. Staring is just the eyes, but the rest of the face is communicating too!
I 'care' for woman so much that in retail outlets like supermarkets, when there is a single lady in a aisle, I actually try not to be in the same aisle with her so that I would not be mistaken as trying to be funny
This is super considerate, I like it. Thank you for watching and commenting here - I recognise you from wonderlust comments too! Appreciate it 😊 May I ask? What is it that makes you think women might feel uneasy in an aisle alone with you?
"heavily controlled police state"? What nonsense! U obviously prefer to live in a place where u can get easily mugged or assaulted. Silly juvenial comment.
I don’t know if it was intended as a juvenile comment - I saw it as positively describing the law enforcement, rather than an ignorant comment about control 😁👍🏼
@@jontytan Red light district are there for a reason....to give or to experience satisfaction... If paying would give a peace of mind and fulfill ones satisfaction, I think they will pay than prey.. But feeling safe and secure in Singapore is more than that....and there are so many contributing factors...
@@bluesquare7952 I fully agreed with you. It’s not worth to prey than paying for it as anytime the woman may turn around and accuse you for committing rape which is a capital punishment in SG.
I spent my early years in Singapore in the 80s, and remember at 7-8 years old browsing Toa Payoh Central by myself, going home when I was ready. Now, living in Australia with a 7yo daughter, there's no way I'd let her do similar here. But I still feel safe when we visit Singapore, keeping in mind our activities are the family friendly kind.
Yeah, we are so fortunate here that our children are safe to go out solo - not that they do it too much!
as a woman who was born and raised in singapore, i agree that it's strict and there are a lot of rules, but those rules help keep our citizens in check. i've been to many countries around the world and although i loved being a tourist in the US and Europe and the holidays were always fun, i honestly felt rather unsafe there even in the daytime. there were people drugged up roaming the streets, fights, and if you don't keep your guard up you get easily targeted.
i would say that men dont understand how important feeling 'safe' in a country is to women. my husband wants us to live and work overseas in the UK and while i think it would be an interesting experience, i know i would totally miss the feeling of plugging into music and walking alone at night (like what i do frequently in singapore).
Hello! Thank you so much for taking time to share your thoughts. Yes, I would say in an unsafe environment I still feel less vulnerable as man. If I felt unsafe I wouldn’t want to be there - so it makes total sense. Thank you again for sharing!
Many of us in SG feel safe that we may take safety for granted when we are overseas. So when my daughter and son went overseas for their student exchange programs, I had to remind them to be careful and alert of their environment wherever they are.
So true! It is a blessing to be in such a safe nation, yet, we must learn to be vigilant abroad.
Not only is safe in Singapore and we live in peace and harmony with all religious and different races.
Absolutely!
To your point of the corporate punishment:
When my family and I lived in Singapore, and when I was at school there, it wasn’t never “feared”. In a way that we don’t let the corporal punishment help us decide how we are going to behave in a daily basis.
The same way how in the UK, most of us don’t let the threat of jail time determine how we live. I suppose.
When Singapore declared independence from Britain in 1959 and from Malaya in 1965, LKY saw that for Singapore to survive, it had to adopt a position of strength in order to prevent for Singapore from fading into the background against regional powers such as Indonesia and Malaysia. A lot of what you talked about in this video, I think, comes from that determination in 1965.
Definitely, and it takes commitment and development over time to ensure this becomes culture. There are other contributing factors I’ll be discussing in coming weeks! 😁
Singapore is very safe for women in general. However, like a few other female commenters, I would agree that it depends on which part of Singapore you are referring to and at what hours. It’s only when I went to the UK for my overseas studies that I developed a sense of “heightened vigilance”, knowing that it isn’t Singapore and I can’t take my personal safety (not just for my sex, but also my race, and my physical height) for granted there. I felt so relieved after returning to Singapore after my studies because I could just exercise “regular” and “sensible” vigilance here.
Thank you for sharing these thoughts :) I'm curious to know which areas and what times? Very interesting hearing your experiences abroad. thank you again!
@@jontytan For school-going children: When I was a student, I've heard of cases where voyuerists have hung around schools or certain hangouts where students frequent after school, such as fast food restaurants or shopping malls. Being from a single-sex school myself, I made it a point to be a bit more careful when I have to walk around alone in my school uniform, but when hanging in a group of friends, it's not so bad. Being in uniform made one a very visible target.
Men who might cat-call or get into fistfights usually do so either in an inebriated state, or in locations where alcohol is sold. I've not personally experienced this myself. However, I do stay in a neighbourhood where there are many nightclubs, and it might be rational to not venture out there during the wee hours.
Another factor might also be the general socioeconomic status of the neighbourhood. The wealthier the neighbourhood (or HDB estate), the more likely you will be spared from having to witness or experience incidents that might endanger you, whether male or female.
I think these factors are rather universal, just that in Singapore, we do not have to deal with a drug/gun control problem/significant homelessness, citizens by and large abide by and respect the strict laws, and in my opinion, we function with an East Asian cultural modus operandi.
This are well thought out and good comments - thank you. Lots for me to consider. I’m wondering whether I explore a few of these neighbourhoods and see how I feel in them. 🤔
@@jontytan Glad that they've helped you! Personally, I would say I live in a rather prime district and have always been in the "elite school" crowd, but my chosen profession has brought me to work with society's most disadvantaged and forgotten folk, and my professional life for the past decade has been interacting with people in the "hidden" parts of Singapore; a lot of the glitz and glamour that Singapore is known for overshadow these places. Being in my position definitely has given me a broader perspective and not a rosy picture of Singapore. Sometimes my life is quite paradoxical because I keep having to switch between interacting with my own social circle/family (upper middle class and above) and those that I work with (lower ends of the spectrum).
You could do a compare and contrast between the general conditions of different HDB estates and landed property neighbourhoods. Many times, the physical enviroment of an estate is dependent on who runs the place (i.e., politician) or the age of the HDB estate. Newer estates tend to have young married couples/families; whereas mature estates have more senior folks. There could be stark differences in the infrastructure thus affecting living spaces and the general atmosphere of the neighbourhood. Despite being such a small country, there is actually a lot of variety of living experiences, I would say.
Very interesting. Yes I like your thoughts and your perspective. Your profession sounds very interesting. Perhaps you could share more? Either on here or at contact@jontytan.com - I feel a project coming on for me! Heheh.
Always a fine line on one hand wanting them to totally believe the world is kind but the other hand needing them to understand differences of countries and cultures.
I’m so amazed at the sheer volume of people in public places, yet I am experiencing total kindness here in Singapore.
I’m so glad you are experiencing kindness across the board! It’s what I see in Singapore too!
Never take safety in Singapore for granted. Low Crime does not mean No Crime.Still need to be caution when travelling at night in Singapore esp. Park & Industrial Area. Strict rules and regulations + heavy penalties & punishment (death sentence & canning) let people think twice before committing any crime. Also there were many CCTV around the whole island.
Agreed - always best to stay alert and not to become complaisant. But good to highlight, celebrate and learn from the safe environment cultivated here. Also, thank you for watching and commenting on here! Appreciate your consistent support for wonderlust too 😊🙏🏼
But do the CCTV work? For the past more than 10 years, residents have been complaining about a trouble spot in an open field just next to their blocks to the MP and who was also the Mayor mind you but nothing gets done and the smokers and beer drinkers continue to haunt, create din and litter the whole place every night. Whole pile of empty beer cans of every cheap type are still lying as a small pool for breeding mosquitoes for the past half a month and don't bother about feedback as the town council pushes to the HDB and the HDB pushes to the town council. Very much like Malaysia.
@Tang T - you are clearly passionate about these things being left out and not cleared away. We all need to do our part - we regularly pick trash nearby, you could have collected some too?
@@jontytan you should join PAP because you sound really like them.
You have turned to making political statements when I’m not being political, I’m being human. If you’re not prepared to take responsibility, why complain?
Hi Jonty, what an interesting topic ! We lived previously in Hong Kong for 18 years as well as had short stints of living in London through work. I have to admit, London late night can feel unsafe for a woman on her own and taking precautions like making sure there were colleagues with me or a taxi from one point to another at night. Coming home to Singapore made me appreciate how lucky we are here, especially with 2 grown daughters who regularly hit the night spots on weekends. Low crime doesn't mean taking safety for granted - there was one tragic murder of a lone woman jogger at Bukit Timah park, though this was a long time ago. Crimes like Up Skirting, hidden videocams in toilets or cases of molest do happen in Singapore. The key for a woman alone (anywhere in the world) is to be sensible and aware of the surroundings. Why walk down a dark street alone if you don't have to, or drink to excess, then being unable to defend herself from a groper ?
Thank you for including the fact that we try to be respectful of others, of their property rather than just fearing the punishments. In this age of materialism and the elitist mindset, it's getting harder to teach the younger generation about honesty, being kind and considerate.
Can't wait for your next topic !! My single women friends have SO much to say about Dating in Singapore and it's horrors 😆
Aida.
Hello Aida! Thank you so much for taking time to comment. I’d love to gather some of the stories from your girl friends about dating in Singapore. I’ve been writing that episode but it’s not ready yet… perhaps you might be able to reach out to me at contact@jontytan.com .. thank you so much for watching - I hope you enjoy my other topics so far!
Well they have flood in all the muslim where they consider non muslim are infidels and have the right to abuse them
@@areebachewa8318 I'm not sure what you mean....
@@jontytan Well why not try to watch on youtube muslim who have left Islam speaking out against their ideology from ex muslim of America, Norway, Infidel Noodle from Australia, Friendly muslim from Canada, Apostate Prophet and maybe you can learn from them about their teaching
Could you provide me with a bit more context? Or some links? Happy to watch and learn 😊
1 word : HOPE. I have travelled to USA, UK, Israel, Thailand, Thailand, Philippines, Japan, Netherland. What I feel is that when large segment of the society lack hope of a better future, the value tradeoff of trepassing the law is low. Wherelse when the society has hope for a better future, even with lax laws, people does not resort to crimes.
This is a very interesting comment and idea. I like it a lot. Thank you for sharing - it's given me food for thought!
A society can only have hope when the current situation of where they live is a place that offers opportunity to have a decent education, a decent job, a simple roof over their heads which they could call home, and able to put food on the table for the family everyday, where everyone especially children and ladies can safely move around without fears of being mugged or taking covers from gunshots, a place where the country and its people are protected and well being taken care off. Only then can they place their hope and look at a assured future.
Isn't it so sad that the things you mention should be a human right, yet is not the case in every country across the world..
Real freedom is when a person is able to walk through the streets without feeling unsafe
By the way,the authorities has always remind us,low crime doesn't mean no crime.
We are not perfect,but we try our best.
Totally agree with the authorities! Low crime does not mean no crime. Always important to stay vigilant and careful. Thank you for sharing!
We have already lost this safe feeling even as Singaporeans since 20 years ago when the foreign hordes were let in. Look even the coffeeshops close at around 8-9 these days when before the late 90s the majority would stay open even as late as 1 a.m. and the whole estate would still be buzzing with people in public up to 10 p.m Now almost everyone shut themselves in after. 7.30 p.m except for duped foreigners and foreign troublemakers.
@@tangt4860
We were worse back then.
Ppl went back early nowadays because more things to do at home.
Netflix,gaming etc;
In the 80s or 90s,less entertainment so ppl go out more often.
@@leongyet9896many who grew up and lived during that era would disagree with your take. Even old pictures and videos show a very vibrant society though agreeably less modern Singapore which was not as developed as Yangon, Bangkok and Saigon back then. Plus you aren't aware of this phenomenon that when HK Man in the Net was broadcasted every Sunday in the late 70s early 80s , many food vendors and hawkers simply went ' on strike' just to go back home to watch it on colour TV.
@@tangt4860
You contradicting yourself isn't it?
One point you said during the older times people went out to enjoy themselves and now you said they close early to go back and catch TV shows?
You ok or not?
Thank you for your sharing of this video. I think one of the factor why Singapore is safe is due to all men in Singapore when they reach 16-20 years old, we have to be enrolled to serve the army for 2-3 years... In those years of training, we are taught to be respectful and learn to protect what we have in Singapore. We learn to protect our citizen in all ways. Therefore when we see someone doing wrong in public... We as ex-soldiers, will try to stand up and handle the situations.
Hello! Thank you for your thoughts on this - I hadn't considered NS! Very interesting indeed. I like this thought. The other day I was giving a presentation on diversity, equity, inclusion and justice and I had a very interesting conversation with an Indian Singaporean about NS being a training ground for respect too. I love it. Thank you!
@@jontytan Yeah ... If your son Milo gonna be a Singaporean... He would have to enrolled to be a soldier too when he grows up... Its a mandatory duty for all man in Singapore.. Cheers
Absolutely! Just like my father before me. I already had a British passport by the time I was 12 and so did not serve.
It's so great to live in safety in SG.
Agreed!! We’ve recently been abroad and didn’t realise how much we had gotten used to it!
I stayed in Singapore all my life and travelled around the world and the one moment I felt Singapore is the safest place in the world is when I always see girls going jogging or walking late at night at the nearby park at 10pm up to even midnight.
Hello! Yes - I love that. So good that girls can do that confidently 😊
safe? A 14 year old male student just got hit while crossing the green light by a BMW today. Sure there are no major guns or stabbings but with so many crazy people from around the world packed in the crowded island, it is only a matter of time.
I get the impression you are unhappy with the way society is heading, can you elaborate for me? What would make it better?
@@tangt4860 I think you shouldn’t lump deliberate crime with accidents together as that will make the entire world all unsafe since accidents are everywhere.
@@jontytan it is just the way it is. How do you feel when you begin to read all this in the news and you get to learn a lot more if you make more friends.
As a generalization, yes Singapore is a safe country. But safety must always be taken in the context of the exact place you are at and the situation around you. A freind of mine was molested in a crowded bus some years go. The bus was crowded and people were standing very close. In such a situation a man my lose his self control. So please practice intelligent safety no matter which country or place you are in.🙂
Absolutely - that is very wise. Such a shame that men can lose their self control in such a way… thanks for commenting!!
I agree with you that it’s safe in Singapore and it’s partly due to our multi cultural society as well as the stringent policing. Enjoy your stay in Singapore. CHEERS.
Thank you for getting involved in the conversation 😊why would you say multiculturalism has a part to play?
@@jontytan it’s because we respect each other’s culture, religions, races in this little red dot 😂
Please don't take for granted that Singapore is 100% safe..
Please don't get drunk in public area. And avoid dark and quiet places in the night.
Of course! Wisdom is always best…
Part of the reason is CCTV are installed around the island-as you mentioned you will pay high penalty if you are caught especially for harassment. Due to the high number of CCTV installed have you observe there are low pickpocket and burglary cases but more while collar crime relatively. (Singapore have her way of governing the country-as an expatriate and foreigner one may find the law is too strict, note how the foreign ministry in answering the Virgin airline Richard Branson's statement on drug penalty in Singapore)
Yes, I found it interesting that those who don’t live in the Singaporean society want to make comments about how it is done here.. I personally hope that Singapore keeps its strict laws about drug trafficking.
Male Singaporean living in Sydney. Some areas unsafe even for men, even local big males. Even beaches & local pubs can be trouble areas.
Areas in Sydney? That’s interesting - how come? In what way is it unsafe?
8:19 as a tourist I got this also.
National days speech just before the National Anthem was something to be admired from across the world. Love and respect to Singapore.
Very interesting video 👍
Hello Steve - thank you so much for commenting! I agree with you - in fact all speeches uphold values of honour and respect - even when referring to the opposition parties!
Chinese, especially, don't make the 1st move so, foreigners may think they are unfriendly/unapproachable but once you break the ice, things are different. It is the culture & upbringing.
Hello! Thank you so much for interacting - I appreciate it!! I agree with you, but I think there’s more to it too… stay tuned 😉
As Singapore started from scratch after gaining independence, the govt wanted its citizens to be upright, productive n moral people.
So 1st corruption, crime, drugs n poverty was cleaned up best as can be. Then standardised education for all children with traditional moral lessons taught as well.
So as most Singaporeans had a higher level of living, with low poverty, unemployment n crime; it all lead to a Happier n Safer environment... so much so that people are really taking it for granted. Even I never develop the practice of leaving my belongings alone unless its not valuable. Competency is something many Singaporeans have developed towards crime, thinking it will never happen to them. As the Police keeps reminding us...
Low Crime doesn't mean No Crime.
Thank you for taking time to comment - I like the historical insights here. I totally agree that low crime doesn’t mean no crime too - always best to be vigilant, but good to not live in fear 😊
Let me share another aspect here.
Many western media or UA-camrs, when talking about the economic miracle of Singapore, tend to say its at the expense of Freedom of speech or politics. Is this true? Yes but not in such as a drastic manner. People often forget that Singapore as a nation or country, only exist as One city on a small island. We have no economic of scale/size (sorry if I'm using the wrong terms here). Anything that disrupts a small part of the population, can potentially bring down the whole country! To give a simile; Imagine 100ppl on a small boat, 1 rocks the boat n the whole boat capsizes. 100ppl on a cruise ship, 1 rocks the ship n it still stays afloat.
In the 60s, we had racial riots between the Chinese n Malays that killed n injured many people, all due to political, racial n religious differences at that time before independence. This is why the govt banned illegal gatherings, strikes n riots; in order to prevent the crippling of the country. Instead, efforts were made to ensure fair workers' rights, religious harmony n explaining political policies. And a part of this was ensuring harmful n false speech is not tolerated as well in order to protect everyone equally. For example:
There are now energy strikes in France over the inflation. Now imagine if ALL of France is actually just one of these city, can this "mini country" of France survive at all?
9 men was just protesting n blocking the entrance of a building in Singapore. The police stopped them n if they r really lucky, they will be given a slap on the wrist. But at the same time, the MOM (Ministry Of Manpower) will look into their complaints, the ministry which these men should have approached in the 1st place.
Lastly, after 9/11, great emphasise was communicated that these were acts committed by wrong followers of Islam n therefore they had no bearing on our fellow Muslim brothers n sisters. This understanding helped ensure no Islamic phobia or blame arose, again helping keep peace, harmony n stability in our country. All these efforts are ALWAYS ongoing n never taken for granted by the govt. And if this current govt continues to perform well, then they deserve to be voted in. If not, they should be voted out. Our late Mr Lee Kuan Yew said that.
OMG sorry for the long rambling. My apologies. ;p
No need to apologise! I really appreciate your thoughts here!! Yes - someone else mentioned the not-rocking-the-small-boat issue and I totally get it and agree. I love the thoughts about intentionally ensuring no Islamophobia and the response the nation had to riots. Thank you so much for sharing these. More food for thought!
Singapore laws Singaporean accepted
Thats why is a safe n beautiful city....
I like the simplicity of this and I agree!
Yes, respect and honour is what drives a lot of what is going on in Singapore. But then, lets face it, the world is just a lot more fun if women and girls can flit about the world feeling pretty and doing what makes them feel happy.
Oh, and listening to a sensitive, thoughtful bloke reflecting on the nuances of the world he lives in is always fun and thought provoking if not great click bait.
Thanks for the comment! Hahah. I’m an emotional guy lol. Not click bait but I’m glad you were drawn to click! Heheh. Hope you enjoy my future content too. 😊
ive a primary school going daughter. when she does go from 1 place to another alone, i must say we are more worried about cars than people. still, it's always better to be safe than sorry. some caution is still required. even here
Totally agree - especially when crossing roads etc. kids can be so easily distracted! Heheh
@@jontytan it doesnt help that children were taught to raise their hand when crossing the roads. my kid thinks that just because she rose her hand, the cars will auto stop for her....
@@Trinetra3382 Oh no! Great idea, but must be applied properly!
On culture. I do believe in Mengzi tale of his mom moving 3 times to the right place for him to shine. Milo is expose to the 'right' value here and learn the same whether you explain to him or not If he's in an area where everyone does graffiti, it will be a norm to him.
Same thing we explained to our kids while we were overseas or JB. Possibly Australia is another place I feel almost as safe as SG. Well maybe before midnight. Lol
Firstly, thank you so much for coming over to this channel - we recognise your handle from wonderlust 😊 … totally agree with you. There was graffiti in the UK and our kids never mentioned it. It just so happens that they haven’t seen any for 2 and a half years!
Still, please don’t take it for granted or become complacent. Although Spore is safe, there are still crazy people around. Always stay alert. When leaving your bags on the tables unattended to chope a place, pls make sure that you take the valuable stuffs along with you. The message given by the government here - low crime doesn’t mean no crime.
Absolutely - thank you for the sound wisdom. Always best to be safe 😊
imo - (1) actual enforcement of laws; (2) less valuation of one gender over another from birth (still there but not as pronounced as in other countries); (3) a high percentage of women who are educated and working which leads to women valuing themselves and being valued as equals (yes, equality is still work in progress here). crime against women still exists here and more can definitely be done but, compared to many places, it is definitely moving in the right direction
Hello - thank you for coming over to this channel to watch and interact too! I really like your thoughts - they open up more conversation on this too. I hadn't considered education but I think it's a really good point. And I would agree - Singapore is not perfect, but heading in the right direction.
@@jontytan also education has allowed singaporean women to enter the workforce, allowing them to be financially independent which then leads to greater sense of self, which then leads to them seeing themselves as being helpess or victims i.e. willing to take action. predators look for helpless victims because predators are largely bullies. also, your POVs, as mine are, are also tinged by being male. the ladies may have another say :)
@@jayzen76 Very true - some of the comments from women on this video have been very eye opening.
Hi Jonty, Very interesting thoughts about safety in Sg and how kids growing up here (not exposed to adversities) will not be prepared for the real world outside of Sg. Sg has come a long way since independence to build a safe environment to live in where there is proper mutual respect for other individuals regardless of race, language or religion and also respect for properties both private & public. Safety for females need more than a culture of mutual respect. It also need a special effort and establishment of equal rights of women enjoying the same rights and opportunity for education, employment etc. and to move away from old traditions / culture that oppressed women. It also needs legislation like Women’s Charter to protect ladies. In Eastern & Asian culture we need to remove the concepts or mindsets such as women’s purposes are for child bearing & taking care of kids, cooking for the family, washing & ironing clothes, treatment as 2nd class being, etc. Also need to remove the misconcept that men is the privilege being. In this modern age, a country needs to show and uphold that women are to be respected. This is needed for a paradigm shift in mindset. Let women with the skills and ability to hold office both in private settings, govt agencies and also political office. I m very happy that we have a lady President in Sg and she is a Malay. It shows the world we practices what we preach. As for kids growing up in safe Sg, it’s necessary to bring them abroad traveling to developing countries to expose them to poverty and unruliness where law & order is not the day. In Italy & Spain even in UK u will see gypsy kids pick pocketing in a group. In some ASEAN countries there are slumps where people scow for food in rubbish dumps. Then your kids will compare and appreciate what they are enjoying. Which is why our govt always remind us not to take our safety, prosperity and security for granted. We took more than 50 yrs to achieve this, and must strive together to ensure its sustained.
Equal rights is a huge consideration I hadn't thought of. Thank you for bringing this up. Definitely important to educate our children on the world outside of Singapore too. Thank you for taking time to share your thoughts - given me lots to think about!
Hi Jonty, during lunch time 12pm u may want to bring your kids to areas where Bangladeshi workers are having their lunch. U will notice they only have 1 dish of meat plus plenty of rice and curry only. They do so to safe money to send home to their families. Our ancestors came to Sg / Malaysia to earn a living in same manner too. This may be a starter lesson on poverty when a country is poor and the value of hard work, frugality, love for the family, earning a decent honest salary, and value of money.
I hadn't thought of that. A good idea, as long as we don't embarrass the workers who are giving their lives for their families. :)
No racial discrimination & efficient police force + strict laws = Safety
Simple….yet not that simple.
Can be applies to any other countries.
Quite possibly... I feel there is still racial discrimination here, just not as pronounced as in other countries. I think having laws that are enforced is super important though. Thank you for sharing!
@@jontytan
One cannot control human behaviours.
We do have racial discrimination behaviour occasionally, but it will be stamped out immediately. Singapore is a multi religious & race country. It will be disastrous if there’s a community riot because of these behaviour.
There was a riot in ‘Little India’ in 2013 you can read in UA-cam, involving an accident where a drunk Indian man was involved in an accident with a private bus. Anger & rumours spread like wild fire.
The bus was set on fire, 2 police cars were overturned by the angry crowd. 300~400 rioters were involves.
Many of these foreign workers were send back a month later after the investigation.
The sales of liquor & cut off time for consuming in this and other areas were implemented to this day.
Singapore do not allowed the ‘boat’ to be rock indiscriminately. It will sink. It’s a very small boat.
I really like what you said there - Singapore is a small boat - we mustn't rock it or it will sink. Great analogy. Thank you for commenting and interacting with me!
Thank you bro. Insightful sharing.
Thank you for watching and taking time to comment. It means a lot! Hope you enjoy the rest of my content 😀😊
As a metropolitan city where foreigners from all walks of life come to Singapore, it is impossible to tell people what to do and what not to do, so strict laws are a deterrent to keep people from committing crimes here.
That’s a good point. I do feel that the culture in Singapore promotes honour and respect - and so crime is also reduced this way too..
SG is among the top 5 safest countries in the world. This may be a blessing (if you never leave Singapore) or a curse (if you're trying to go on holiday). If Singapore is safest, then everywhere else will be less safe. But you go on holiday to relax. Not to become hypervigilent and worried about your safety! So... I can only go on holidays to Japan cos they are also very safe.
On values... Here, "outrage of modesty" is a crime and perpetrators of outrage of modesty are charge in court. This may not be so in other places. Certainly, India ("rape capital"), women have been assaulted and molested with impunity and the reality is that it is difficult for these victims to get attention from the law, let alone justice. That contributes to the "culture of safety" -- how much of the little indignities would society accept and tolerate? That tells would-be perpetrators what they can get away with.
Now the crime that is being given ample publicity (here in SG) are those upskirt photos. Again, the willingness of our laws to go after these "crimes" sends a message - these are our values. Same for gum on our train doors - we are serious about it. It's the "broken window" hypothesis in social science (sociology). If you tolerate one broken window pane, you'll tolerate another, and its downhill from then on.
The leaving valuables (to chope places) also suggests that Singaporeans believe that they are socially mobile: "I respect other's property because one day I might have the same valuables, and then I would like others to respect my property." In a society that is less socially mobile (or where people do not believe that they are socially mobile), the attitude may be, "why should I respect other's property? The only way I would ever get that is if I take it now while the fool is not looking!"
Hello! Thanks for sharing - these are really good points you raise. Agreed - even the minor laws are enforced and so people wouldn’t be prepared to commit the minor crimes. Do watch my latest video on legalised prostitution- I’d be interested in your thoughts!
💯 agree!
Hello Hanifah! Thank you for watching and commenting!
Singapore is very safe for the following reasons:
CCTV
Strict laws
Almost zero corruption
Residents are not poor
Harsh punishment (caning)
I have intention to visit the UK someday but not sure if my friends are interested. So i intend to go alone after seeing an acquaintance took pictures and tiktoks of himself. Now I am having 2nd thoughts after hearing what said.
It’s a beautiful country, you just need to be careful 😊
Its not just women who feel unsafe. Good man also feel unsafe but we often only hear about how it affects women. Men just kinda have deal with it. I'm not trying to downplay what woman feel but I think it's important to talk about how the issue is affecting both sides.
Hello! Yes - this is a really fair point! I definitely feel safer in Singapore too!
Honestly, growing up as a young girl and woman in SG didn't feel that safe for me. I was teased, cat-called at, stalked, peeped at while showering after a swim in a public pool, and also exposed to at my doorstep when I got home late after work. And mind you I'm not one to dress provocatively, drink, or draw attention to myself. It's the same situation with some of my girlfriends too. The level of safety is different when you live in an HDB estate, and it very much depends on which area you live in too. So while SG appears generally safe, you do need to exercise caution and be very aware of your surroundings as a female. I'd strongly recommend preparing your daughter for some of these scenarios and how to deal with them. Especially when she's of school-going age. Much of the harassment me and my peers encountered happened while we were all school girls in primary, secondary, and even college levels. I felt compelled to share because I do think nothing is more dangerous than being lulled into a false sense of security.
Thank you for taking time to share this. I'm so sorry for what you have experienced. I hope that we can be better in the future. I found it interesting that you differentiated living in an HDB estate - you feel these are less safe sometimes? I'd love to hear more. I'd be interested in knowing which areas you'd say are less safe too. Thank you again for sharing :)
Bad hats can appear anywhere, not necessary only at HDB estates. Perverts will plan their ruse at secluded quiet spots where they won’t be easily caught. Also they also watch and track which target is usually alone.
Very true. Always best to be safe and vigilant at all times.
Too many foreigners and even local elites will call you bluff because they have been so brainwashed by MSM propaganda and paid advertisements overseas.
Definitely not propaganda. There are real statistics out there too.
Yes, Singapore is one of the safer country in the world , but remember Low crime doesn’t mean no crime.
Good advice!!
When people live in a safety zone is very hard for them to see the world is not as safety as they think ...Where people who have live in Ghettos they know the world is not as safe and they have grown how to handle the situation ...FYI where ever you go to other countries is the best to know whether is safe or not safe is better to have your belongings and money close to you especially money when there is a bad situation you have these monies to either call someone and can be able to handle the situation ....
Very true! Best to be cautious!
Singapore is safe because we are not living in poverty.
CCTV plus tough punishment
But we are not 100% safe
Interesting idea RE poverty - I guess people sometimes steal out of desperation.
Low crime is not no crime..... We still need to be careful.... One won't know what is going to happened.
Totally agreed - always best not to become complaisant. There is value in being careful. What I'm talking about here is the overarching culture which is very positive and very safe, comparatively speaking.
Nothing Singapore can impart to the UK with regards to safety. UK people are brought up differently from people in Singapore.
This is key. The beliefs, the culture, the liberties, etc create the society.
Example. The failed attempts by Thatcher in no litter laws from Singapore. It is the liberties acceptable.
I think you're onto something here actually - I think Singapore can offer a lot - but it is in culture creating and honour and valuing. The UK could learn a lot. These are the foundations of safety.
@@jontytan I lived & worked for a stretch of nearly 20 years in Europe, mainly the British Isles.
I can tell you, the pride of the British stands in the way. No body does it better than a true Brit. You need to pass Norman Tebbit's cricket test, if you think yourself anywhere a Brit.
Nay. Nothing from Singapore cuts it. Never from a ex colony. The stiff upper lip. Die die. Try denying Brits from their pub culture?
I think that’s what I’m saying - should the UK be able to adopt some of these Singaporean values, it would change the UK for good… it would be very difficult and take a long time.
@@jontytan Lagi extremely difficult to almost impossible for USA with Trump and his supporters and their powerful NRA
As a woman who regularly visits Singapore I feel safe at all hours especially late. I appreciate an emptier train isn't something I shouldn't use. Something I'd never do in Sydney alone if at all. Your laws regarding punishment do work as consequences are very real & known. Doesn't mean crime isn't there just consequences are respected.
Very true. I agree with your thoughts.. thank you for interacting! I appreciate it 😊
"safer particularly for women?" idiot no-brain muscled hubby ! a 25yo sg female after party 2am over in orchard road, walked alone here, she so proud shouted,"sg is safest for women"!. suddenly a local indian man 40yo, just released from prison, stopped her and impersonated as a plain clothes police threatened her of suspect drugs on her, dragged her and raped her twice till 5am... . many culprits dont care consequence, they take risk and chance
a A-star female scientist from china 28yo after work 8pm walked in grass under buona vista MRT, she was robbed stabbed by knief many times from behind and she losed her kidneys need dialysis, culprit not caught by police. a malaysian clerk 23yo after work walk home 9pm and she was robbed stabbed by knief many times, she losed one of her kidney... .
To fact check - the 28 year old was walking at Commonwealth and was not robbed. There were no reports of kidney loss. I cannot find any reports like the second one you mentioned. I am sad to hear that no perpetrator has been caught from the first incident. Safety is something to appreciate, not to take for granted. Always best be be vigilant and alert.
@@jontytan This is just my experience travelling every few mths to Sg (except when borders where closed Singapore/Australia) for 9 yrs as my partner is Singaporean. I've slways felt safe which is something I don't in Sydney.
Thank u.
Thank YOU for commenting and watching!
Like to highlight a SG law wrt women and safety: Outrage of Modesty- a woman can claim that against a man if he touches her or makes her uncomfortable etc and if the police charges the man for outrage of modesty, the Courts will rule in favour of the victim and punishment is harsher too.
I still see posters in buses from the Police Force urging women to report or speak out if they are molested in buses. Many questions come to mind, are molestation cases going unreported? Do the authorities feel that are more victims suffering in silence?
Some talk about NS or army “training ground” to respect law and authority yet the same army also teaches the unwritten golden rule: “do anything you want but don’t get caught”.
Thank you for putting forward these ideas and thoughts. I had always seen the posters and announcements as both a deterrent and a promotion of safety and protection. I do wonder how many women are not reporting it. It’s a horrible thing to happen and I guess many wouldn’t want to relive a nasty experience again.
Good topic
Thank you. Many of the comments here have given me a lot to think about!
Use to have Moral education during kindergarten and primary schools.
Yes whole period of it........
Singaporeans are really good targets overseas because of their naivety..
I seen and heard enough horror stories from tour leaders bringing Singaporean tours groupes to Europe.
Yes, unfortunately many places in the world do not have the innocence that Singaporeans have. It is a blessing but also can be a struggle abroad. We must continue to educate each other on how to be vigilant.
because Singapore is a place where Feminism thrives, citizens toe the line, men are taught not smack women around at a young age? it is generally safe for all citizens but crimes do occur.
Yes, crimes happen… but it’s good that it is safe mostly 😊
You still have to be aware in your surroundings. Especially at night even as a guy. Trust your instinct. I encountered a group of youth at night and felt off. Cross the road immediately and there was a gang fight with another gang coming from another street. Noted they are not after me but I don't want to be collateral damage . That was that 1 incident my whole life.
But you are right, I am training my daughter for the real world beyond SG. Someone who took public transport home since Primary 2 alone
Totally agree. The more we are vigilant and not complaisant, the less we will be collateral or in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Yes, safe here.
Definitely! Love it 🥰
Great video!
Thank you!
Well before Singapore attained sovereignty and full independence in 1965, the Southern China immigrants populated Singapore en mass , in particular the Cantonese speaking group. Generally speaking, the Cantonese Chinese have strong family bond and values. These social-family bonds and values heavily empathize economic success , personal responsibility , and respect for others. Not surprisingly, the combined annual crime rate of Singapore, HK, Shenzhen and Guangzhou is less than the combined daily crime rate of NYC, Philly, Chicago, and LA. As Confucius noted over one thousand year ago, more laws, numerous police, and harsh punishment do not create a civil society - strong family-cultural values do.
I love that Confucius quote - do you know it word for word? I can’t find it… really appreciate these thoughts!
@@jontytan Research on Confucius's family ethics
Chen Jinghua
The family is the cell and basic organization of society. Whether the relationship between family members can be harmonious or not depends on whether there is a reasonable principle for handling family relations, that is, family ethics. Family ethics is not only the basic principle of adjusting family relations and maintaining family harmony, but also an important guarantee for social harmony and stability. As a country with a Confucian cultural tradition of more than 2,000 years, China has always respected the Confucian family ethics created by Confucius in a long-term traditional society. Although its content has been profitable or even revised with the changes of the times and the needs of rulers, neither the purpose nor the core content has not been fundamental. Change. Taking "benevolence" as the principle and "courtesy" as the norm in family ethics relations, Confucius designed the dimension of family ethics, including the basic ideas of family ethics such as father and son filial piety, husband and righteous wife, brother and brother-in-brother respect, sacrificial ethics, family ethics, etc. Influenced by the social structure and cultural concepts of the pre-Qin period, Confucius' family ethics has the characteristics of paying obvious attention to blood relationship, which is mainly reflected in family orientation, family supremacy, hierarchical order, family-country integration, etc. The family has always been an important field of human ethical and moral life. Traditional Confucianism regards the reconciliation of family relations and the rectification of family life as the basis for governing the country and the world. Therefore, Confucian thinkers and politicians attach great importance to family ethics education. It is used as a way to educate family ethics through demonstration, education persuasion, and politics. Confucius family ethics is neither an eternal truth nor a worthless mess. In the process of China's contemporary social transformation and family ethics reconstruction, according to the inheritance characteristics of culture and special cultural national conditions, we should adopt an ancient and modern scientific attitude to systematically sort out the ethics of the Confucius family. After in-depth processing, we should explore its rich connotation in line with human nature and still have modernity. The core content of value and give it a new connotation of the times, making it the theoretical basis and ethical reference for building a harmonious family and a harmonious society. From the perspective of Marxist philosophy, this paper reorganizes the family ethics of Confucius, takes its essence and removes its dros. Combined with the characteristics of family ethical relations tending to be simple, family ethical relations tending to be equal and democratic, the axis of family ethical relations from parent-child to husband and wife, and from parents to children, we correctly understand the contradiction between one-child burden and filial piety, personal standard and family responsibilities in family life. The contradiction between the freedom of marriage and the rising divorce rate, the contradiction between matter and over spirit, etc., fully excavate the positive factors in Confucius family ethics, so that they can give full play to their due value in solving practical family contradictions and problems and building social ethics. ......
in Chinese it’s call 仁义，道德观念
@@pgobservers Seems this applies only to relationships among the Chinese people in China but hostile to others like USA and India and also Taiwan?
I am a Singaporean and have been on this earth for 55 years. Its true that our laws are pretty strict but it is because of those laws that we are safe. There are alot of discussion about the death penalty for drug traffickers. I am FOR the death penalty. Violence always go in-hand-in with drugs. Stay away from drugs and u will have nothing to worry about death penalty finding u. If u have the time, read up on the The Singapore Story by LKY. In it, he explained why certain policies they made were not popular but necessary. As for the Johor crime rate, I understand from my Malaysian friends that majority of those who committed the crimes in JB are illegal immigrants (from neighbouring countries) who were either jobless or drug addicts.
Hello - thank you for your comment. Super interesting! I think I’ll have to get hold of the Singapore Story - I think my dad has a copy.
I'm a Chinese Singaporean guy but I got stared at a lot during my visits to India but I am not bothered 😂
Fair enough! Context is always important!
Yes and No. Yes, overall people in Singapore is well mannered, well educated, mature and not cheating in business, almost zero fraud, honesty chart is good compare to other countries. No, when it comes to woman man relationship, I heard some men are playboy to women and may have issues cheating relationships.
That’s sad to hear.. any idea why this might be the case?
Low crime don't mean no crime
Totally agreed - always best to be vigilant.
Dear mr Monty tab, you should consider seriously getting back your citizenship. Your daughter will be more recognized n receive more job opportunities here in singapore. I myself have two boys with singapore n Finnish citizenship, n I have no intention of letting my boys stay as Finnish citizens knowing what I know.
It’s a process 😊 But yes, I fully agree with you on this! 🇸🇬🙂
Many of you just come in without the need for you and your sons to serve NS and of course think Singapore is heaven.
My father served NS and my son will too.. I wasn’t allowed as I had British citizenship.
He keeps saying milo and all i can think of is the drink lol
Hahaha. He gets that a lot! The drink isn’t so common in the UK - and when he was born we didn’t intend on moving home 😂😂 sometimes his friends say “stop drinking yourself!!”
U really need to ask those always have in mind that all these safety stuff have an impact on most westerner freedoms .
This is interesting, I do feel in the UK and the US, they often care more about rights than responsibilities…
@@jontytan in singapore the safety laws covers a very wide spectrum . Some will make a westerner feels ....(controlled)
That’s a fair assumption. I guess it depends on different mindsets of westerners. I grew up in the UK and feel very comfortable with the rules here and them being upheld 😊
Actually, there's a word that Singaporeans (especially the men) would readily understand... "automatic". It is a term used in regularly when the men serve their National Service. It meant do the right thing without being told or reminded. I guess National Service does instill better self-discipline. Young men who have not served were also influenced by this mentality by either their families or friends on such ideas.
I think this is awesome! I love the automatic-ness - 2nd nature if you like!
Many good interaction given below .l do agree , but do remember mishap will happen to anyone any time .No doubt Singapore look safe but after covid I don't feel so .Too much anger , desperate people in fact all over the world .so advice vigilance,alert in all time .
This is a really interesting point. Do you feel the covid season has had that much impact on mood?
I will not feel safe to leave my bag unattended in crowded areas especially in touristy areas. You can never know who or what kind of people are there too.
Fair point. Is this because you’re concerned about others not knowing our laws, or because you think they have a different culture or mindset to us?
@@jontytan
Although they are rare, petty thefts do happen in Singapore now and then. Usually involving shoplifting. Snatch thieves are almost unheard of.
I imagine that for people who live in a country where snatch thieves are common, seeing unattended wallets and phones, on a spur of the moment, will somehow make taking the items more tempting. Locals are more aware that such crimes are generally solved within days if not within hours hence dampen the temptation to commit such petty crimes.
Yes, fair point. Interesting to think of the temptation variability based on experienced culture. 🤔
Unfortunately, a lot of sexual crimes against women still pop up in the news here and I hope we can all work on keeping all women safe !!
Totally agree! We can and must get better!!
We leave our wallets and phones as a chope-ing exercise at the hawker centers
Yes!! There is SO MUCH trust in the system and in humanity!
Pls don't "chope" with your wallet/phone. That is just not done. Use something you won't mind losing.
@@rontee1743 Always best to play it safe!
That's over complacent. Don't give additional work to the police later.
Fair point.
Very polite and politically right when you descripted the incidence in JB🤣
It was honest 😊
He forgot to mention the PRC wife chopping incident at a hot pot shop at Liang Seah in broad daylight earlier this year.
I didn't forget - it wasn't necessary to make my point.
Most of the crimes are not committed by locals .
PM Lee look a like?! 😆😅🤣
Hahaha. Thanks! Hopefully a younger looking version! Ha!
Why?
The prixe for harassing women is a long rod called rotan.
It's the elixir of pleasure with pain.
Would you say the deterrent of consequence plays a bit part?
@@jontytan
The locals are well aware of the harsh conditions while in detention, unlike the tourists are the ones who take it for granted.
I'd agree there. Easy for tourists not to be aware.
Guess, we are taking the safety for granted.
We do indeed. Good to remain grateful and to always remain vigilant. 😊
Im a cop here. We will trace and find the bad guys when they are vulnerable at home in their underpants....NOBODY Likes That....ha ha ha but seriously everybody here hav jobs, house and healthcare so nobody gonna do much property crime just occasional fights perpetuated by drunkeness...having said that however ive seen some worse cases so Low Crime Does Not Mean No Crime...
Hahah. Yes, totally agreed. You’re funny 😂😂
Staring in SG is quite dangerous actually. One can get whack for staring.
I'd say staring is very different to making eye contact. However, it's important to understand our context - when eye contact and looking at people could feel threatening etc.
@@jontytan you are totally right. Most staring incidents in SG are becos of silliness, but mostly are become those men thinks they can TAKE ON other, out of pride.
I’ve seen a couple of those videos out in the media. Fortunately it happens rarely!
@@jontytan the thing is why world people be threaten by staring? Probably these people has very low self esteem and after always thinking that some one is after them.
No always the case - I think there are experiences that can make people feel less safe. And there are types of staring. Staring is just the eyes, but the rest of the face is communicating too!
Who say so Singapore is safe?
The whole world…
I 'care' for woman so much that in retail outlets like supermarkets, when there is a single lady in a aisle, I actually try not to be in the same aisle with her so that I would not be mistaken as trying to be funny
This is super considerate, I like it. Thank you for watching and commenting here - I recognise you from wonderlust comments too! Appreciate it 😊
May I ask? What is it that makes you think women might feel uneasy in an aisle alone with you?
@@jontytan I think it is also related to my shy nature. Sounds like the topic you are gong to explore next about dating!
Interesting! Yes I will be touching on it in the next vlog I think!
Safe if u are young work nwork of money but if u old no safe hahaha
What do you mean?
Everyone's safer in Singapore, which is the result of living in a heavily controlled police state.
Yes! I don’t know if accurate to call it heavily controlled?? Do you think there are clear downsides to it?
Heavily control police state?🤔🤔🤔, I think HK should be more police state
"heavily controlled police state"? What nonsense! U obviously prefer to live in a place where u can get easily mugged or assaulted. Silly juvenial comment.
Not sure that I’d agree with Singapore being a heavily controlled police state!
I don’t know if it was intended as a juvenile comment - I saw it as positively describing the law enforcement, rather than an ignorant comment about control 😁👍🏼
Maybe because Singapore legalized prostution...😁
This is an interesting thought. Do you think men would prefer to pay than prey?
@@jontytan Red light district are there for a reason....to give or to experience satisfaction... If paying would give a peace of mind and fulfill ones satisfaction, I think they will pay than prey..
But feeling safe and secure in Singapore is more than that....and there are so many contributing factors...
Interesting points! I like your ideas here and think they are indeed valid. But you're right, many contributing factors indeed!
@@bluesquare7952 I fully agreed with you. It’s not worth to prey than paying for it as anytime the woman may turn around and accuse you for committing rape which is a capital punishment in SG.
Interesting! Do you know anyone who goes to brothels who might be happy to talk to me in confidence? It’ll be totally anonymous