Singapore Expats

This is difficult to express...

In every country, or area within a country, there are certain verbal taboos which we don't talk about. For example, asking a woman if she is pregnant is the worst thing you can say to a woman ever (unless she is actually in the middle of pushing the baby out--and that is the only exception).

What about in Singapore?

My spouse and I don't normally talk about politics or religion, since we're both bored and uninterested by the topics. Are there other forbidden topics to avoid?

Strangely, on the immigration form, there is a section for religion beliefs. We realised that we both count, under their classification, as "free thinkers", which made us feel like try-hard hippies. I always wonder what they ever do with those data, if anything.

You can talk about anything with anybody here except Muslims.

I would avoid any sex related topics. They are much more taboo here than in any "Western" country.
I would be also careful openly criticizing the gov.

Rightio then. No talk of sex, politics, or religion. So just basic civility. Not too hard.

I had heard of the "don't openly criticise the government" thing before, so the reminder does well to reinforce this. I suppose this falls under politics anyway.

The following topics are safe:

* the weather
* food/makan places
* shopping
* soccer/football
* dining out
* sales

...ad nauseam...

How about: How many times a week do you masturbate?

Do not criticize the locals/local culture at any forum/place where you can be recognized or overheard.
It is ok to talk (not debate) about religion but do not criticize and do not preach.
There are 3 major races in singapore, avoid generalizing/stereotyping them negatively in conversations. Some public statements and internet posts can be considered criminal offenses if they are deemed to disrupt social harmony.
Among males, sex talk is ok especially with all the public scandals occuring nowadays but some individuals may find it offensive just like in any other place. To be safe, let others start on the topic.

Talking abt sex is just as appropriate/inappropriate as everywhere else. Don't talk with SGreans about foreigners, housing prices, politics and alike. Do not join their conversations about that as well. This may get you in trouble even with SG friends.

Strong Eagle wrote:How about: How many times a week do you masturbate?

Gotta be a new separate topic this one.

Should we make it sticky?

Usually is.

Steve1960 wrote:

Strong Eagle wrote:How about: How many times a week do you masturbate?

Gotta be a new separate topic this one.

Should we make it sticky?

I see what you did there.

Strong Eagle wrote:How about: How many times a week do you masturbate?

A week?????

Try more like an hour dude!

If God wanted Singaporeans not to masturbate, he would have made their arms shorter...

Sergei82 wrote:Talking abt sex is just as appropriate/inappropriate as everywhere else. Don't talk with SGreans about foreigners, housing prices, politics and alike. Do not join their conversations about that as well. This may get you in trouble even with SG friends.

Shit. I can't remember the number of Singaporeans that have asked me, "How much you make?" or "How much you pay?" when referring to my house, my car, my motorcycle. My typical answer is either too low, too high or to ask them the same question.

As for politics, qualify the person. Can be a great conversation.

Depends on person, yes, but better to avoid. Especially nowadays. Or talk about politics without mentioning foreigners. Or you may end up with a very sadistic conversation.