The Reality Of Living in Singapore For 17 Years (as an American)

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  • Опубліковано 27 січ 2025

КОМЕНТАРІ • 971

  • @muhammadfairuzsamsi7209
    @muhammadfairuzsamsi7209 Рік тому +580

    Bro, I think this is one of the best interviews so far. He's really being frank about his experiences. A breath of fresh air.

    • @arsenal_84
      @arsenal_84 Рік тому +25

      Yup, having stay in sg for so many yrs, he really adapted well.

    • @MaxChernov
      @MaxChernov  Рік тому +13

      Appreciate it, bro! 🤙🙏

    • @tanhuachan
      @tanhuachan Рік тому +2

      Yes bro. I like it too. Well said by you.

    • @andrewv.9890
      @andrewv.9890 Рік тому +8

      Frankness is mostly an American thing bro.

    • @xaerotan8286
      @xaerotan8286 Рік тому

      ​@@arsenal_84
      V
      Viv thn bt
      B tidak bunk un
      Slide clips to delete themText you copy will automatically showSlide clips to delete themPin copied text snippets to stop them expiring after 1 hourSlide clips to delete them herernbjssedtkj😢dg😢😢😢j😊

  • @AndrePHK
    @AndrePHK Рік тому +164

    Why does it always takes a foreigner to appreciate what we, as Singaporeans, regrettably, take for granted? Dennis, you deserve the PR, best of luck in your next application.

    • @rjjrjehehew
      @rjjrjehehew Рік тому +5

      He doesn't want pr, he wants to retire in us.

    • @Phello123
      @Phello123 Рік тому +5

      Because we don't get much to take for granted. Foreigners are first class citizens, local girls and second class citizens and local males are third class citizens in Singapore.

    • @tintintin534
      @tintintin534 Рік тому

      Singaporeans just love to complain and not being contented. need to live overseas and get some life experience

    • @alimfuzzy
      @alimfuzzy Рік тому +2

      ​@General Hux you're full of BS. Do you even live in Singapore?

    • @cmymotion
      @cmymotion Рік тому +5

      Nobody wants to retire here. You need a job to live in Singapore

  • @marielee4643
    @marielee4643 Рік тому +84

    As a Singaporean, I definitely agree with him regarding retirement. Got to keep the income flowing in and it's quite stressful.

    • @lannyjr1042
      @lannyjr1042 Рік тому

      Malaysia 👌

    • @Cyan_Nightingale
      @Cyan_Nightingale Рік тому +3

      Singapore is not the right place for retirement. Better go to Malaysia

    • @Cyan_Nightingale
      @Cyan_Nightingale Рік тому +2

      But then again.. Singapore is far better than Hong Kong. They value diversity here & the govt is good enough even Hong Kongers go to Singapore to find work

    • @marielee4643
      @marielee4643 Рік тому +2

      I would probably advise against going to work as an English teacher in Singapore since the market for English teachers is too saturated. If I'm not wrong, the demand for IT trained workforce is much higher. Data Analytics is quite a hot field.

  • @mylesnmore
    @mylesnmore Рік тому +193

    I'm also American living in Singapore for 15-years and I agree with a lot of these points he mentioned. As long as you live like a normal person, you get by without thinking about missing certain "freedoms". Great point.

    • @Nelson484
      @Nelson484 Рік тому +13

      That's what many people in totalitarian countries say, too. Just don't protest against the government, know you place, keep your head down and you will be fine.

    • @ericww1993
      @ericww1993 Рік тому +34

      @@Nelson484 Why protest when the goverment always hear and respond so quick? What to be protested about?

    • @commentarytalk1446
      @commentarytalk1446 Рік тому +13

      @@Nelson484 If you listen to his story of the dispute with the car, the only way HIGH DENSITY environments can be organized with humans is fundamentally through an "Authorative" regime.
      And it works for people better too. If you take the much vaunted "democracy" (it's not democracy at all it's poltiical and bureaucratic "elite" running a nation with the periodic circus of elections) how things run tend to degrade over time with insurmountable "special pleading" and appeasement eg the homelessness problem in the US is an example or kids school behaviour is out of control in other such nations. Just look at many US Cities degrading.

    • @Ginasgusa
      @Ginasgusa Рік тому +10

      I am a Singaporean living in the US. In general, Singapore is an awesome country with government taking good care of its citizens. I am very proud of my country. However, we all realized that no country is perfect so as much as I love my home country, I totally disagreed when it comes to freedom. Absolutely no freedom in Singapore unless you wanna be a puppet, string along by the govt. I was warned numerous times that I shouldn’t talk about politics because “they” are listening. Don’t say this or that! I am embarrassed with their backward laws regarding the rights of the LGBTQ society. This is a review given by a westerner. All nice but I truly like a review from a Chinese, or Malay or Indian who migrated to Singapore. I think the story will turn out to be a little different.

    • @ericww1993
      @ericww1993 Рік тому +1

      @@Ginasgusa "..government taking good care of its citizens.."
      dude please, its all that matters

  • @shilashilslala
    @shilashilslala Рік тому +138

    An honest interview. He should have been given a PR. As a Singapore citizen myself, I am impressed by his knowledge of our diversities. This shows that he has assimilated well with the people here.

    • @jadendsouza8366
      @jadendsouza8366 Рік тому +7

      he probably doesn't want to retire here?

    • @jeney7928
      @jeney7928 Рік тому +11

      Too expensive to live in Singapore for retirees, he said.

    • @rjjrjehehew
      @rjjrjehehew Рік тому +1

      Why must need PR?

    • @kelvincheng5901
      @kelvincheng5901 Рік тому +7

      But not all are as humble n assimilated well like Dennis..in recent years there's the perception the country is letting in too many foreigners who don't bother to integrate. Can't blame the citizens for feeling negative towards the immigration policy

  • @henrihenderson4148
    @henrihenderson4148 Рік тому +110

    As a fellow expat in Singapore for 25+ years I truly appreciate this open and candid sharing of views about living in Singapore, honest and very relatable. Well done.

    • @MaxChernov
      @MaxChernov  Рік тому

      Our pleasure!

    • @kwokholuk8723
      @kwokholuk8723 Рік тому +3

      You said that you have already lived in Singapore for 25+years. So, have you got the permanent residency of Singapore ?

    • @henrihenderson4148
      @henrihenderson4148 Рік тому +2

      @@kwokholuk8723 Yes of course.

  • @glehagocoaching
    @glehagocoaching Рік тому +48

    I am Danish and have lived in Singapore for 12 years already and love it here. I was fortunate enough to obtain a PR status back in 2011 which has definitely helped me. I value how Singapore manages a multicultural society where everyone can feel welcome and have the ability to contribute to society here.

    • @kwacou4279
      @kwacou4279 Рік тому +2

      Chinese Singaporeans constitute 75.9% of the Singaporean citizen population. It is a Chinese nation with ethnic minorities.

    • @glehagocoaching
      @glehagocoaching Рік тому +7

      @@kwacou4279 of the resident population you are correct at 2022 had 74% ethnic Chinese. But there are also 1.6 million non residents in Singapore, large parts from Indonesia, Philippines and South Asia. 👍 It's a melting pot. Remember that culture is not defined purely by ethnicity. 😉 Belief system, world experiences, nationalities, heritage and more are all here and Singapore tries hard to create a place that is welcoming to everyone. 🙏

    • @abbey1999
      @abbey1999 Рік тому

      Haha multiculturalism what a stupid idiotic remark. Shows u have totally believe the Chinese PR BS

    • @jwanglerz8500
      @jwanglerz8500 Рік тому +1

      ​@@kwacou4279and Singapore is the only country in south east Asia that practices meritocracy. Not soo for the rest in the region.

    • @asmirann3636
      @asmirann3636 Рік тому

      ​@@glehagocoaching Singapore is basically an Asian ecosystem.
      The whole South East Asia was always very diverse. People of various ethnicity lived with each other for centuries. Chinese, Indians were always present across the region in lands that were Malay, Indonesian, Thai or Burmese. But all of these groups believed and practiced peaceful co-existence.
      Such an ecosystem is completely opposite to the European ecosystem where Ethno-nationalism or Tribalism is the way of life. These attitudes breed and preach hatred and violence for the others. This is why Europe and Europeans have such a violent history among each other and also with Non-Europeans.
      Irony is that these values, that accept you and let you be one with the Singaporean society, can never be the values of your home country. Over there rampant disrespect and hatred for the others are pretty much the norm. With the rise of neo-fascists across Europe, including Denmark, it is only a matter of time when you people will again start some sort of ethnic cl*ansing and g*nocide across Europe.

  • @leehongjin6884
    @leehongjin6884 Рік тому +111

    As a born Singaporean I would be happy to have someone like Dennis around here. He is certainly a wise individual who doesn't lock himself to a window.

    • @wpn-k8d
      @wpn-k8d 5 місяців тому

      Lee ?

    • @wpn-k8d
      @wpn-k8d 5 місяців тому

      born singaporean ?

  • @Maya-sv1pz
    @Maya-sv1pz Рік тому +10

    he's direct and honest. welcome to south east asia. you're part of us now

  • @MrKevinliow88
    @MrKevinliow88 Рік тому +123

    That was another amazing interview with an expat and his very positive view about life in Singapore. Thank you so much Max.

  • @RaymondChia_Silaqui
    @RaymondChia_Silaqui Рік тому +31

    I find it really impressive with the places you find to do the interviews. Those are places for even some of the local would not know about.

    • @MaxChernov
      @MaxChernov  Рік тому +6

      Thanks I’m doing my best 😁☺️

    • @tankenneth9915
      @tankenneth9915 Рік тому +2

      Looks like pearls Hill to me.

    • @lydiat5819
      @lydiat5819 Рік тому

      I just found out a wonderful place a few blocks away from me and I have lived in this area for more than 20 years !!! ... smh ...

  • @gilchristhaas9865
    @gilchristhaas9865 Рік тому +44

    That was really a wonderful interview. As an American who loves Singapore and am embarrassed about the direction my own country has taken for the past decade or so, this man’s views resonate strongly with my own.

    • @ordoabchao4202
      @ordoabchao4202 Рік тому +6

      As a German who loves Singapore I feel the same...

  • @vicdesilva
    @vicdesilva Рік тому +132

    The reason the police used a note book is because it won’t get recorded into the system. It’s a non issue. 😊

    • @boohennessy4638
      @boohennessy4638 Рік тому +8

      ​@A A R You also don't need a battery, firmware upgrades, internet connection etc. Writing also helps your memory.

    • @roberthalverson3987
      @roberthalverson3987 Рік тому +2

      WHY NOT USE A BODY-WORN CAMERA TO DO THE INTERVIEW AND ONLY WRITE DOWN IMPORTANT TECHNICAL DETAILS? THEN THE OFFICER CAN REVIEW THEIR INTERVIEW BEFORE TYPING UP (OR DICTATING) THEIR REPORT AFTERWARDS. SINGAPORE IS AN ADVANCED COUNTRY AND I'M SURE THEIR POLICE DO THIS BY NOW.

    • @Horotoma
      @Horotoma Рік тому +9

      ​@@roberthalverson3987 trust me, the officer used her discretion after realising that one guy was being very petty and decided that this is a normal, non-violent dispute, and decided the best way to de-escalate the issue is by taking a statement by note and just leave it at that.
      Cameras are not used probably as the incident didn't warrant it.

    • @induchopra3014
      @induchopra3014 Рік тому +3

      Police just did formality. But this man is a pycho..look at his speed of talking. He doesn't seem to have many friends. He could have sorted this small issue himself

    • @junbecks
      @junbecks Рік тому

      Thats what many Singaporeans do . Cant communicate? Call the police. Cant deescalate? Stomp/whip out camera and record.

  • @leongyet9896
    @leongyet9896 Рік тому +61

    Good interview.
    As long as foreigners who contributed and can gel into local communities and not get stuck up,we welcome you!

  • @dawnho7744
    @dawnho7744 Рік тому +37

    Hey Max. This is my first time watching your channel and I want to thank you for making this interview. I really enjoy watching this episode because as a Singaporean, I get to hear how expats/PRs (in this case, Dennis) feel about living in this little red dot. It's so heartwarming to know that Dennis finds Singapore a very livable country and that he has been here for 17 years.
    Hope to see more of such videos soon!

    • @MaxChernov
      @MaxChernov  Рік тому +5

      Welcome aboard!

    • @matpk
      @matpk Рік тому +1

      @@MaxChernov RACIST RACIST ASIAN COUNTRIES NOT ALLOW FOREIGNERS TO BECOME CITIZENS😂😂😂

  • @Shahrie
    @Shahrie Рік тому +193

    As a Singaporean born and bred here, I agree with Dennis a 100%. He's every bit an ideal Singaporean and kinda sad that hes not gotten at least a PR. My take away from this video is to never forget to look up at my surroundings everyday, try something new and be thankful that I've been presented with all these around me in my life. Alhamdulillah. We can only move forward. Majulah Singapura.

    • @CoreyChambersLA
      @CoreyChambersLA Рік тому +4

      PR means Permanent Residency

    • @anchored555
      @anchored555 Рік тому +15

      @@suhanjayalian5044 SG was never part of Indonesia, so why should we be expected to speak Indonesian?

    • @limbehh8494
      @limbehh8494 Рік тому +11

      ​@Jeremy WCK Bro.... I were shocked too. We ...Singaporean speak Indonesian?????? Just leave him alone ya.

    • @kengleetan63
      @kengleetan63 Рік тому

      Ang Mo did not know or look at things ,that the ruling party seems to be responsive to ground sentiments and will respond but Ang Mo does not know that the ruling party is good at lip service and wayang...
      Oh....of course...Ang Mo does not watch wayang...he only watch Netflicks!😆😆😆😆😆

    • @natureadventurist956
      @natureadventurist956 Рік тому +3

      ​@Jeremy WCK Bro, you can pen down your disagreement about people's comment. But, stay on course and professional and have ethics and avoid judging people by using word such as idiot and arrogant.

  • @amyg1073
    @amyg1073 Рік тому +25

    Good n honest reflection. Appreciate this kind of conversation. Sg police usually take down notes as a statement report, but treat this kind of dispute as a trivial matter that happens everyday. So no action taken

    • @NazriB
      @NazriB Рік тому

      Lies again? American Education Teddy UFC WWE88

  • @crystal8537
    @crystal8537 Рік тому +13

    Very insightful. I am a Singaporean and literally just found out of ur channel and now i am watching ur past vids hahaha

    • @MaxChernov
      @MaxChernov  Рік тому +2

      Thanks so much ☺️

    • @vennsim71
      @vennsim71 Рік тому +2

      Max’s videos are very down-to-earth, and very much at grassroots level. Refreshing, to say the least.

  • @leongsam1075
    @leongsam1075 Рік тому +59

    I like this chap! Enjoyed this interview.. and can relate to his views. Seems like a guy who had been mellowed with age.. a very good wine! 😊. Thank you and good job Max. PS: good to see your sub numbers gradually increasing. Press on max!!

    • @MaxChernov
      @MaxChernov  Рік тому +2

      We are working on it! Thanks so much!

  • @rickychan1727
    @rickychan1727 Рік тому +8

    Great interview! Really liked Dennis's honesty and transparency. All the best to you Dennis!

  • @raymondtan4261
    @raymondtan4261 Рік тому +23

    Thank you Dennis for speaking a candid view on Singapore. Wishing you all the best on your PR status in Singapore.

  • @siewtohong7138
    @siewtohong7138 Рік тому +3

    Very candid this interviewee. Appreciates his absolute honesty! Good job on finding those interviewees!! Keep it up!!

  • @matthewhartman7176
    @matthewhartman7176 Рік тому +52

    My GF lives in Tampines. I'm from WA USA. I was in Singapore recently and greatly enjoyed my stay and the lifestyle. The sense of safety and unity was something very foreign to my senses as an American. A welcome one. I found myself agreeing with much of what this man said.
    Yeah, Singapore is definitely not the place to retire. Honestly, I'm not convinced the USA is either.
    I miss Kopi C kasong lah. 😂

    • @shreeraaman1667
      @shreeraaman1667 10 місяців тому

      You should consider retiring in Ukraine. I've heard that the weather ☁️ is fantastic over there.

    • @blackstar_4
      @blackstar_4 4 місяці тому

      @@shreeraaman1667raining bombs?

  • @unbiasyoutuber7117
    @unbiasyoutuber7117 Рік тому +4

    I would love to hang out with this guy. Thanks for the honesty and we hope you earn enough to stay here longer😂

  • @yktang4088
    @yktang4088 Рік тому +6

    I like this man. He is so authentic. It is amazing to hear from an American working and living in Singapore to say so many good things about Singapore.

  • @eviegoh
    @eviegoh Рік тому +1

    Singaporean here, appreciating the candid interview and frankness! A lot of what he observed and talked about is relatable. Loving the slippers/thongs/flipflops in the grass, whatever you want to call it.. haha.

  • @graceyam1925
    @graceyam1925 Рік тому +5

    We Singaporeans welcome such a foreigner who is not bias and given a good and fair outlook of his 17 good years of appreciation in this little dot with gratitude and balance view of how he sees our multicultural landscape. Thk you for such a comprehensive view of our beloved island.

  • @turtlechomper5361
    @turtlechomper5361 10 місяців тому +1

    My wife is Singaporean she says this guy gave very accurate answers. I am an american and have spent about 9 months total on 3 different trips in Singapore. I loved it there its a great country.

  • @edgyguy8240
    @edgyguy8240 Рік тому +16

    Nice interview. Dennis sounds like a very well planted guy. All the best to you two!

  • @d4vid0110
    @d4vid0110 Рік тому +2

    Truly enjoy this episode! Kind of glad to find your channel.

  • @AlilatTiamiyu
    @AlilatTiamiyu 3 місяці тому +419

    I believe the retirement crisis will get even worse. Many struggle to save due to low wages, rising prices, and exorbitant rents. With homeownership becoming unattainable for middle-class Americans, they may not have a home to rely on for retirement either.

    • @johnawara9719
      @johnawara9719 3 місяці тому

      Got it! Buying stocks during a recession when prices are down could be a good move. You might get them at a lower price and sell later when they go up. Just do your homework and be aware of the risks before diving in!

    • @IbrahimIsabella-00
      @IbrahimIsabella-00 3 місяці тому

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    • @zubairadamu2477
      @zubairadamu2477 3 місяці тому

      @@IbrahimIsabella-00 Mind if I ask you to recommend this particular coach you using their service?

    • @IbrahimIsabella-00
      @IbrahimIsabella-00 3 місяці тому

      @@zubairadamu2477 MARGARET MOLLI ALVEY Constable is the licensed fiduciary I use. Just research the name. You’d find necessary details to work with a correspondence to set up an appointment..

    • @zubairadamu2477
      @zubairadamu2477 3 місяці тому

      @@IbrahimIsabella-00 She appears to be well-educated and well-read. I ran a Google search for her name and came across her website; thank you for sharing.

  • @Ginasgusa
    @Ginasgusa Рік тому +16

    I am a Singaporean who migrated to the US. Yup, I get that EVERYTIME I get into an argument with anybody in the US. I guess it is how it is no matter where you are.

    • @GUITARTIME2024
      @GUITARTIME2024 Рік тому +1

      My wife is foreign, here in America. Not once has anyone told her to "go back", and I doubt it happened to you very much.

    • @henggaraed
      @henggaraed Рік тому

      @@GUITARTIME2024 something not having happened in your life really is not the ultimate proof that is has never happened to anyone else. It might not be every single time but a few times, is believable.

    • @yrsofpain
      @yrsofpain Рік тому

      @@GUITARTIME2024 just cause it never happen to you it can happen to other clown ass.

    • @wpn-k8d
      @wpn-k8d 5 місяців тому

      @@GUITARTIME2024 he wont answer you he is liar lol

  • @Llaollaoyole
    @Llaollaoyole Рік тому +3

    DENNIS IS AWESOME!! thank you Max, the best content always!!!

  • @yuva
    @yuva Рік тому +8

    Bro, super smooth ad. Love it. Also, man got angry when someone took his chope. That alone should qualify him for PR and citizenship haha

  • @eriktiongweeseah465
    @eriktiongweeseah465 Рік тому +25

    Very insightful interviewing session for people to know about SG: Dennis seems to know the local way of living--probably learnt from some locals. Also a clear-cut and straightforward answers from Dennis--with using different lenses to look at different angles of your surrounding; including sharing his life story!

  • @moltenvanilla
    @moltenvanilla Рік тому +2

    Love your videos!!❤ Thank you for sharing their views. As a Singaporean I find it so educational. Never had the chance to interact with them much❤

  • @davidtaiwaileong8692
    @davidtaiwaileong8692 Рік тому +3

    Thank you for putting this interview out. I think this is very real and more of such videos will further enhance the local fabric and bind us with new residents. This also feels real because we can also see Dennis scratching mid-interview 😄😄

  • @jacektravel1
    @jacektravel1 Рік тому +2

    I agree with Dennis 100%. An true and real perspective on living in Singapore. Mysleft: 11 years here. Thanks for posting the video.

  • @manseb5211
    @manseb5211 Рік тому +12

    After so many yrs in Singapore he's truly able to accept the diversity of multiracial society in our city state without any feeling of alienation. With such open minded views on things here, i wish him well in the coming yrs living in our little red dot. May he find peace in his twilight yrs.

    • @RADIUMGLASS
      @RADIUMGLASS Рік тому

      People in Singapore and that part of the world advance, and will continue to advance. There is multiculturalism there, however, there isn't any one group or specific groups that are trying to dominate society.

  • @dreamscuba
    @dreamscuba Рік тому +2

    Great interview and a very nice gentleman being interviewed. I agree with his sentiments. I am grateful to be a visitor living in Singapore for many years.

  • @KevGoesRiding
    @KevGoesRiding Рік тому +9

    I dont usually watch content like this (as a singaporean) but i have to say this was really well done and insightful from the both of you

  • @sarahrnl
    @sarahrnl Рік тому

    Thanks!

  • @charlesquah
    @charlesquah Рік тому +3

    A wonderful and honest interview!

  • @y2kjericho86
    @y2kjericho86 Рік тому +1

    I like Dennis's sharing of his experience. He really does not hold back and he is very honest, straightforward and I really take my hats off to him and lots of respect to him. Its nice to hear someone who does nto hold back, its raw and real.

  • @chroniclesofalazyriderbyde9504

    A very true outlook of my home. A very good and honest interview with Dennis.😊👍👍

  • @ahmetjank3892
    @ahmetjank3892 Рік тому +1

    I just came across your video. You have gift to get genuin and very real story telling from people.
    I rarely write comments.
    Love your video. ❤

  • @JP-ok2qd
    @JP-ok2qd Рік тому +3

    Great interview Max. Dennis is very humble and open with his views both positive and negative! Well done!

  • @SwingLeeSooYing
    @SwingLeeSooYing Рік тому +2

    It’s very insightful and the interviewee has quite a lot of experience about life.

  • @Sail17
    @Sail17 Рік тому +12

    this is an example of an ang moh we like. all the best for him and his family

  • @zephyrkhambatta
    @zephyrkhambatta Рік тому +1

    Yup, great one bro. Thanks for making this.

  • @mrtan1309
    @mrtan1309 Рік тому +36

    Jeez.. I couldn't believe someone like him who's been working and living here for so long didn't managed to get a PR. He had clearly blended into our local culture.

    • @chee-liekho5860
      @chee-liekho5860 Рік тому +2

      Perhaps he does not like to be a PR. It is "Hotel Singapura " kind of thing.

    • @peterkhew7414
      @peterkhew7414 Рік тому

      His retirement fund is back in the US. He has to go back eventually.

    • @SleepyOx2023
      @SleepyOx2023 Рік тому +3

      Singapore's opaque PR requirements may be scary to a lot of people. Even smart people may feel they're never good enough, and hearing how others get rejected means they probably will delay as much as possible until they feel they have enough net worth to apply. The stigma from firsters is also a factor, some expats may feel they don't want to bother a bee's nest, given how easy it is to expel foreigners if they make a human mistake, even if they really really want to be a PR. Thirdly your company needs to pay CPF once you become a PR, so in a way, starting to have to pay CPF might be a consideration for the company? But expats pay the same tax rates but the benefits go to locals.

    • @rjjrjehehew
      @rjjrjehehew Рік тому

      why you want every foreigner to get PR.
      suck their kuku for what?

    • @orzRaspberrih
      @orzRaspberrih Рік тому

      @@SleepyOx2023tldr if you pump money into singapore, or if you're highly educated and want to start a family in singapore, it's not hard

  • @goddanner
    @goddanner Рік тому +1

    The interviewee is really frank and it really gave me an insight on how it feels for him living in Singapore!

  • @gl9795
    @gl9795 Рік тому +13

    Almost jealous of him being able to live in my home country! And I'm here in the US (Florida to be more specific) and would love to get out of this crazy state. Thank goodness I've held into my Singaporean passport and hope in this lifetime to head back and live there.

    • @thumpertorque_
      @thumpertorque_ Рік тому

      Florida is an absolute shithole just like New Jersey. Move to a different state.

    • @marielle3929
      @marielle3929 Рік тому

      @@derrickjensen1240same question

    • @uresfffff222
      @uresfffff222 Рік тому +1

      @@derrickjensen1240 prolly money

    • @arfriedman4577
      @arfriedman4577 Рік тому

      Many blessings

    • @abbyabroad
      @abbyabroad Рік тому

      Yes! I grew up in Florida and live in China now. Hope you escape too and get back to Singapore.

  • @lilycool2601
    @lilycool2601 Рік тому +2

    Thank you, for your insight of Singapore n the people. I wish you the very best while you are still in Singapore.

  • @leadershipvids
    @leadershipvids Рік тому +4

    I've been here for 30 years and became a citizen a long time ago... Singapore is a gem

  • @matsudarx8
    @matsudarx8 Рік тому +7

    Thank you Max. U r helping me understand my country more everyday through different lenses. It's wonderful. It's good to have you as one of us. I have always hope that singapore can become more cosmopolitan. I think it has happened and I love it. Different cultures all in one place. I just hope that the other cultures (which are not the 4 main ones) can also take a front seat, truly making singapore a little united nations.

  • @thosetravelmoments
    @thosetravelmoments Рік тому +4

    Great conversation. Wishing you both happy staying here in SG.

  • @mbnb007
    @mbnb007 Рік тому +3

    great interview, lived here 11 years and all points raised and answered are bang on :)

    • @MaxChernov
      @MaxChernov  Рік тому

      where are you now? :)

    • @mbnb007
      @mbnb007 Рік тому

      @@MaxChernov still in Singapore :)

  • @kevinwebster7868
    @kevinwebster7868 Рік тому +8

    I’m an American and have lived here in Singapore for 18 years and have been a PR the entire time. My only issue is that locals assume I’m filthy rich. I don’t even make as much as a cab driver so no I can’t afford to just buy whatever I want. Also Singaporeans don’t seem to understand how good they have it. They think it’s expensive but Singapore is far better than other places. With my current health issues if I still lived in the U.S. I would be in so my much debt due to medical bills that my children would spend their lives trying to pay it off after I’m gone.

    • @MaxChernov
      @MaxChernov  Рік тому +5

      Yes, average Singaporean has much higher standard of living vs other countries. It becomes very obvious when you start traveling.

  • @fomoyolope3573
    @fomoyolope3573 Рік тому +1

    Hi Max: You did a fantastic job in conducting the interview with an American expat working and living in SG. I don't know if I am able the catch the guest by his first name but his frankness and straightforwardness reflect an important element, authenticity. I was born in SG and currently reside in Los Angeles California, USA. Like your guest, I have had excellent experience about SG; love the infrastructure, people and many others.
    In regards to the van incident, there are street bullies in every country unfortunately. Kudos to the guest for taking a stand against a bully. The guest and I have similar options as to where to retire. I encourage viewers to explore and travel overseas; not necessarily for retirement but to stretch one's horizon. The guest made a very good point about the world; it is so big and changing.

  • @gera.w
    @gera.w Рік тому +10

    i really enjoyed this interview too, Dennis has very insightful and at the same time down to earth opinions which I think more people should listen to. He ought to get PR really, from his reaction to having his choped table taken away, he’s singaporeanised already 😂

  • @victimofpsychiatry
    @victimofpsychiatry Рік тому +13

    As a Singaporean, I have to say kudos to you both for being able to stand there for hours with the (possible mosquitos) and flies 😅

  • @Seramics
    @Seramics Рік тому +3

    So much for advice n wisdom from this man. Thanks.

  • @psreinc
    @psreinc Рік тому +2

    very good and balanced interview. thanks

  • @georgeho8997
    @georgeho8997 Рік тому +6

    Anything that goes into the system cannot be altered or erased, so writing it down on paper first allows both sides to cool off; after all, this was just a trivia matter with no casualties, so it does not need to go into the records so quickly.

  • @Neverender3367
    @Neverender3367 Рік тому +1

    I just discovered your channel and love it! I have always been interested in Singapore and I’m excited to learn more about it. Thank you for the great interview my friend.

    • @MaxChernov
      @MaxChernov  Рік тому

      Thank you so much! Where are you based? :)

  • @drjennyli
    @drjennyli Рік тому +47

    The story about van driver. My god. Mind blowing. Glad local police is reasonable and Just, coz what driver is demanding , makes Singapore looks really bad.

    • @anchored555
      @anchored555 Рік тому +7

      There are bad hats everywhere, not just in SG. One bad apple shouldn’t taint the whole lot.

    • @noproblematallmate
      @noproblematallmate Рік тому +13

      I think the police trying to drag out the process and make it look like they are going to do something is intentional to let both parties cool down and allow the guy who reported to feel "it isn't worth it". This is as compared to passing a judgement quickly on the spot on who is right and wrong.
      Chinese has a saying. Turn a big thing into a small thing. And a small thing into nothing.

    • @NijiKonohana
      @NijiKonohana Рік тому +7

      Lol you have no idea how many bad apples there are on Singapore roads, especially taxi drivers. My dad has at least three run-ins with taxi drivers who keep pushing past damages on him to get him to pay. Particularly one company that uses red taxis. I would suggest you avoid them if you can :P

    • @drjennyli
      @drjennyli Рік тому

      @@NijiKonohana 😳

    • @user-ht1qg9xn3ra
      @user-ht1qg9xn3ra Рік тому +3

      I incline to think that the diver himself might not realize what had actually happened.

  • @j.reneesiow9142
    @j.reneesiow9142 Рік тому +1

    U r the only person that speak the truth abt Singapore on UA-cam , most ppl that made a video abt s’pore hv either just visited us in a couple of days or weeks n nothing they said tells the whole truth. thank u for being so honest speaking abt Singapore ,

  • @limbehh8494
    @limbehh8494 Рік тому +8

    I like dat American... his perspective of life and enjoy everything around him. He live his life well. Cool !!!

  • @starlet88sg
    @starlet88sg Рік тому

    thank you Dennis. you really know us very well. enjoy your stay here.

  • @MyReallyOne
    @MyReallyOne Рік тому +10

    I am moving to Singapore from Spain and your videos are helping me a lot to understand so much about the country life.
    Appreciated your hard and interesting work Max.

    • @MaxChernov
      @MaxChernov  Рік тому +4

      Oh cool! You will enjoy the place!

  • @LeeMia875
    @LeeMia875 Рік тому

    This video is amazing! The perspectives and information you present are very in-depth.

  • @carpediemroses189
    @carpediemroses189 Рік тому +12

    Hi max, this is a pretty good interview . It is apparent that Dennis appreciates what Singapore has to offer and gives an insightful view about it. I hope he gets his PR soon . 17 years here are certainly a long time. I find that sometimes my fellow men do complain about our government but really the grass may not be greener on the other side.

    • @impopquiz
      @impopquiz Рік тому

      Aiya, our complaints are the govt agencies’ KPIs mah. Keep them on their toes. 😅😅😅

    • @rjjrjehehew
      @rjjrjehehew Рік тому

      He will NEVER get PR. Shut up

  • @aqilhomaili
    @aqilhomaili Рік тому +17

    The argument part where people said to go back to your country is pretty common for any foreigner living in any country as long you are reasonable and know you wrong doing I think its fine.

    • @Cysecsg
      @Cysecsg Рік тому +1

      Doesn’t mean other places are doing means it’s a “norm”. He said “mostly” his fault, means there are time others are at fault too. No matter whose fault, there shouldn’t be any bigotry counters. It just meant they failed to win logically and resort to such tactic. It’s shameful.

    • @sdqsdq6274
      @sdqsdq6274 Рік тому +9

      lol , people say hurtful words when they are angry all the time , all i can say is just walk away , as simple as that ...

    • @LordKarma101
      @LordKarma101 Рік тому +2

      Personally i feel that the "go back to your country" is more common in western countries towards foreigners. When i was student in UK and US, i experienced the "go back to your own country Chinky" in both countries. My other friends had similar experience. Note: for these westerners, as long as you look Asian, we are all Chinks from China. I guess they don't study geography in school, as anything East is China.

  • @SuperModerngranny
    @SuperModerngranny Рік тому +8

    About the incident with the driver, please note that there have been incidents where people trying to scam 'naive' victims. Not sure if the scammers are local but I have read of such scams happened on the road. Drivers jammed break causing the car behind to crash into theirs. They then demand a ridiculous amount of compensation on the spot. In Dennis' case, he's a foreigner, so the guy tried to do so via the SPF. Of course, SPF here are not stupid enough to fall for such scams either, they will investigate.

  • @corgiforever3822
    @corgiforever3822 Рік тому +1

    Appreciate Dennis for your valuable insight n heartwarming sharing about your pros n cons living experiences in Singapore. Well, Max has also done an enjoyable n superb interactive meeting with Dennis 👏 👏 Cheers~

  • @Fluffy-Floki
    @Fluffy-Floki Рік тому +11

    I really appreciate this video and especially Dennis. Living in Asia has his mind opened and he say it nicely in regards to the restriction of laws. I agree with him that in general, if you are a descent human and live your life normally, majority of the law would not feel like a restriction to freedom. The only time I had encounter a police in my country was when I ride a motor bike with non standardised helmet. I got a fine. But I did not feel like my life being controlled by government, it is more like a H&S reminder. @Max, thank you for creating such content and provide an opportunity for us all in exchanging experience and learn from one another. Salut

    • @MaxChernov
      @MaxChernov  Рік тому +1

      Thanks so much for your kind words! 🙏

  • @kaps3767
    @kaps3767 Рік тому

    I (From India) just love these kind of blokes - honest and nice human being

  • @garamgarum4898
    @garamgarum4898 Рік тому +7

    IMO, SG is good if you are young, competitive, hard working and don't mind crowded places everywhere either in the city or suburbs. And to be able to live comfortably with decent quality of life, monthly income should be at least above 15K for couple without kids. (as you all know, rental prices are very expensive now). With kids will need to have much higher income.

    • @Jack-hy2ki
      @Jack-hy2ki Рік тому +3

      No leh. Me and my wife and 2 kids living very comfortably and decent quality of life with combined monthly income of less than 6k. We have our own house and car and eat HDL or BITP or restaurants whenever we want. Forgot to mention we travel 2 to 3 times annually.

    • @garamgarum4898
      @garamgarum4898 Рік тому +4

      @@Jack-hy2ki what I say is the amount of money that would need to stay in Singapore as an expat with expat lifestyle, not as a local who has own house. Here rental prices are very expensive which would take significant % of monthly income. Now the rent for HDB EA is SGD 4500-5000 a month. Even in suburbs far from the city, its SGD 4000+ already. I believe expats would stay in more central areas and more likely to stay in condos then the rent would be much more expensive than this. If you check current rental prices for 3 bedroom condos, you will see.

    • @Jack-hy2ki
      @Jack-hy2ki Рік тому +2

      @Garam garum u r assuming only they expect expat live. I have a lot of expat customers. They are very down to earth. Yes, rental is crazy now. Blame who? Our government? No lor. Blame the US keep increasing interest. Now those home owner who took bank loan suffering and therefore they return it on the tenants.

    • @garamgarum4898
      @garamgarum4898 Рік тому +3

      @@Jack-hy2ki I am not assuming. I am quoting the current actual rental prices in Singapore. And I am saying the reality. Reality is expats don't usually stay in far away suburbs. They are staying in areas like near Orchard, Novena, Holland Village etc. Be realistic, how much do you think those who come to Singapore with family and stay in those areas would need to spend in a month? Confirmed 6K is not even enough for monthly rent in those areas. Even in suburb will need at least $4000+ to rent hdb apartment (bigger ones like EAs). My original comment is regarding the amount of money that expats would need in a month. It's not about blaming anyone for insanely expensive rental prices in Singapore. FYI, according to EIU's Worldwide Cost of living index, Singapore holds record as world's most expensive city for 8 out of 10 consecutive years, including last year. This is the reality.

  • @TheNasa85
    @TheNasa85 Рік тому +7

    Just being honest, open minded, respectful and grateful, you can live a good life anywhere on earth. And he is one of a good example.

  • @panda63725
    @panda63725 Рік тому +26

    One thing good in SG, bullies can't get away by calling the police.
    Even between locals, a dispute like that with one sided accusation, police will not take sides but to split the argument.
    However, if Dennis had evidence, he could also instead report the reckless driver to the police.

  • @dennisfoo1622
    @dennisfoo1622 Рік тому +2

    Amazing!! I wanna buy you and Dennis a beer. Or two!! For real!

  • @coolstardy
    @coolstardy Рік тому +13

    He definitely understands the local culture very well and we welcome him as a PR.

  • @Natura804
    @Natura804 Рік тому

    Good positive mindset displayed by the person. I think one really understands the meaning of life when one is out of the cocoon surrounding.

  • @hoodedidiot
    @hoodedidiot Рік тому +17

    Excellent interview! The backdrop is nice and all, but wouldn't it be better to have an interview where there are less insects crawling up your legs LOL.... poor guy

  • @boonleeglobal
    @boonleeglobal Рік тому +2

    Great job Dennis.

  • @MaxChernov
    @MaxChernov  Рік тому +45

    Subscribe to this channel if you like Singapore, America, or your mom! 😘

    • @MaxChernov
      @MaxChernov  Рік тому +2

      @@suhanjayalian5044 you from Malaysia? :)

    • @user-ug4je2zn5f
      @user-ug4je2zn5f Рік тому +3

      ​​@@suhanjayalian5044連 ,You referring to the local born Sporean or not a local born?
      Mari kita rakyat Singapura
      Sama-sama menuju bahagia
      Cita-cita kita yang mulia
      Berjaya Singapura
      Marilah kita bersatu
      Dengan semangat yang baru
      Semua kita berseru
      Majulah Singapura
      Majulah Singapura
      Onward Singapore
      Come, fellow Singaporeans
      Let us progress towards happiness together
      May our noble aspiration bring
      Singapore success
      Come, let us unite
      In a new spirit
      Let our voices soar as one
      Onward Singapore
      Onward Singapore

    • @user-hz6yg6mf3o
      @user-hz6yg6mf3o Рік тому +1

      ​​​@@suhanjayalian5044 hey ! " Lian a chinese name , i'm doubtful u can speak in Mandarin 华文.......lol.
      Let's bless each other let's not leave negative comments...

    • @rjjrjehehew
      @rjjrjehehew Рік тому +3

      ​@@suhanjayalian5044 Indonesia also has no one culture, it took the Dutch 300 years to unite you

    • @juanitamallanao
      @juanitamallanao Рік тому

      ❤❤❤❤ Beautiful city of Singapore.. Newfriend here

  • @Cecilia-
    @Cecilia- Рік тому +2

    He was very articulate. Great interview

  • @anchored555
    @anchored555 Рік тому +49

    Dennis appreciates what we have in SG better than some Singaporeans. Maybe we should swap them for him and give him PR😂

    • @lotuseletre8724
      @lotuseletre8724 Рік тому +7

      Yes, that is like that for many in each system /society though. People naturally take what they have for granted. It would be beneficial for everyone if they would take more effort to understand the difference so that they can appreciate more what they take for granted.

    • @MaxChernov
      @MaxChernov  Рік тому +3

      Hahahaha

    • @muhammadfairuzsamsi7209
      @muhammadfairuzsamsi7209 Рік тому +10

      People appreciate more when they have experienced how other countries worked.

    • @felix4059
      @felix4059 Рік тому +1

      Why don't you give up your job and citizenship for him?

  • @siewtohong7138
    @siewtohong7138 Рік тому +2

    I’m sure the government will love this interviewee

  • @seabreeze667
    @seabreeze667 Рік тому +8

    Maybe try interviewing Sporean from the neighborhood who are making the average national income of around S$3500?? His staying near Orchard, he should be those expatriates that Sporean are tired of hearing.

  • @changaiai
    @changaiai Рік тому +1

    The koel calling in the background lends a very Singaporean touch to the video 😂

  • @muizzanis
    @muizzanis Рік тому +23

    i like the way he described in American cities various races lived in "patches as pattern on quilt". diverse etnicities but in groups of their own
    whereas in Singapore diverse and mixed. similar to Malaysian towns and cities

  • @MaxChernov
    @MaxChernov  Рік тому +1

    Watch next 👉 ua-cam.com/video/iZuizUbSh5I/v-deo.html
    The story of a foreign woman who obtained Singaporean citizenship. Will she ever truly belong in Singapore? 🤔

  • @christine8203
    @christine8203 Рік тому +7

    A very interesting interview with Dennis; thank you for being so candid in sharing your (17-year lived-in) perspective of Singapore. People like you both are needed in Singapore to provide a side of diversity that is not possible among the locals - by that, I mean when you bring your culture, your ways of seeing and interacting, etc. to Singapore and adapt it to that of the island, the locals will see another expression of humanity, which over time, will be woven into the national fabric. I laud the leadership of Singapore!
    I do want to retire in Singapore…more cons than pros? I’ve been seeing only the positives! 😬

    • @MaxChernov
      @MaxChernov  Рік тому

      Thanks for your perspective!

    • @ordoabchao4202
      @ordoabchao4202 Рік тому +1

      The only con to retiring in Sg is the cost. If you can afford housing and health insurance without income you should be fine.

    • @christine8203
      @christine8203 Рік тому +1

      @@ordoabchao4202 that’s good to know. Thank you for the info.

  • @Glickan
    @Glickan Рік тому +1

    Very good video, Singapore here I come ❤🎉

  • @riptyurass302
    @riptyurass302 Рік тому +4

    Honolulu is actually probably the closest city to Singapore in terms of what it's like.

  • @CapDingo1975
    @CapDingo1975 Рік тому +1

    This popped up on my feed. I must say that you have edited this very well! So well that I smell Singaporean. Efficient communication of content. Nice one!
    I moved from Sydney when I was 22. Married here at 24. Kids at 26. We are still here. Chinese heritage so yeah we blend right in until I open my mouth. Agree fully with the views shared. Accurate and consistent with my observations. The only thing I would add is that without a high paying job, as a local, they do struggle immensely. Cost of living is high. A salary of 6K is difficult to run a family on. They would be scraping by. This is something that we as foreigners need to be more sensitive about. The "good life" we live is one we are blessed with. It's not something that everyone in SG experiences, especially locals. Much like the experience of clocking off at reasonable hours in HP versus the local style where they leave at 9pm or later because the boss is still there.

  • @tanhuachan
    @tanhuachan Рік тому +4

    Thank you. I am a local and tks for the balanced and fresh perspective. Good video.

  • @siokbeeyeo1186
    @siokbeeyeo1186 Рік тому +2

    Awesome interview