Things Considered Taboo or Rude in Singapore
At least during my Gen X childhood in the 70’s and 80’s
3 min readApr 27, 2024
I randomly went back to something I published on my WordPress blog way back on 10 February 2011. 13 years ago.
Here’s what I wrote before, slightly modified.
I wanted to share a list of cultural norms or things considered taboo. I have been repeatedly corrected growing up so that’s how I’ve learnt.
I thought visitors to Singapore or new residents might find the list useful or at least fascinating.
I would love to hear about the cultural norms in your country that I am probably not aware of.
- Wearing black to a wedding. (it’s considered bad luck, and for Indian weddings no white saris for women either as that’s for widows)
- Pointing at someone with your finger. (Rude)
- Touching an adult on the head as it’s a part of the body considered sacred. (Disrespectful)
- Kicking or touching a book with your foot (in Indian Culture books are considered sacred and knowledge should be respected)
- Visiting someone without bringing a gift especially if you don’t regularly visit (rude in Indian Culture)
- Not offering a guest to your house a drink…