Business culture working in Singapore

After more than 50 years of continuous efforts since independence (1965), Singapore is now known not only as a green-clean-beautiful, modern and civilized country but also as one of the largest financial centers in Asia, one of the most attractive and friendly investment destinations in the world. According to recent statistics and research by the International Labor Organization (ILO), Singapore's labor productivity is currently many times higher than that of other countries in the region.

When talking about Singapore's success, it is impossible not to mention the business culture and working culture of Singaporeans.

This article by GLA will provide information and knowledge about Singaporean working style and business culture, etc. Thereby, businesses will have a clearer view of the country they are about to invest in as well as avoid unnecessary cultural conflicts.

Singapore may be just a small dot on the world map, but its economic contributions are remarkably significant. So, how do Singaporeans work, and what business culture have they developed?

1. Singaporean working style

Besides being called the Lion Island, Singapore is also fondly called by international tourists as the intersection of Eastern and Western cultures. Because of this, Singapore's business culture is also a unique combination of Eastern and Western cultures.

1.1. Status and power

Most local companies in Singapore follow an Eastern working style, especially influenced by Chinese culture. This is understandable, as Chinese people make up 75.2% of Singapore’s population.

Due to this influence, the gap between employers and employees in local companies is often significant. Lower-ranking employees are expected to respect and strictly follow their superiors’ decisions. They rarely challenge or openly question authority.

In contrast, power distance is non-existent or very low in large international companies in Singapore. Superiors will often ask for the opinions of their subordinates when making any decision and they are also willing to listen to their subordinates' opinions when they disagree with their decisions.

1.2. Individualism and Collectivism

Western business culture values individual achievements, emphasizing innovation and creativity. Westerners often prioritize personal success in the workplace.

However, like many Asian countries, most Singaporeans and local companies prioritize collectivism—“one for all.” They believe teamwork and collaboration are the keys to achieving optimal efficiency.

Challenging group decisions, prioritizing personal interests over the community, or promoting individual efforts over collective success are seen as harmful to the common good. 

Singaporeans emphasize sharing rewards, responsibilities, and knowledge at work. However, younger generations in Singapore are increasingly leaning toward individualism.

1.3 Compliance with principles.

Singaporeans are highly disciplined and follow established rules. This is evident in how most local businesses prefer employees who strictly adhere to guidelines rather than those with unconventional ideas. Similarly, they avoid hiring managers who act too independently without following set procedures.

Most Singaporeans do not focus on creativity at work, as their roles emphasize compliance over bold innovation. While they are encouraged to be "as creative as possible," many restrictions limit this freedom.

The initial idea of Singapore’s leaders was to nurture only a few innovators and let the rest of the population follow the pattern to drive Singapore’s development. However, Singapore’s leaders later realized that this idea was a mistake. To compete in this global economy, they needed more talent with bold innovative ideas.

Therefore, the Singapore government decided to change its policy, they try to encourage creativity and change in all classes and industries. However, this change cannot be completed overnight but is being implemented step by step.

Due to this deep-rooted respect for rules, Singaporeans strictly follow government policies. They queue in public places, avoid littering, refrain from honking unnecessarily, and minimize fraud or legal violations. These behaviors are evident to anyone visiting or working in Singapore.

1.4. Saving face

<p>In Asian culture, "face" plays a crucial role, and Singaporeans are no exception. They highly value respect and dignity in both personal and professional settings.</p> <p>In business, avoiding situations or remarks that could embarrass or offend them is essential. Failing to do so may lead to strained relationships or even lost opportunities.</p>

1.5. Working time

Working hours in Singapore, for office workers, have been reduced from 6 days a week to 5 days a week, equivalent to 40-45 working hours per week with 30-60 minutes of lunch break. In addition, depending on the workload, Singaporean employees decide whether to work overtime or not.

1.6 Multiracial, multicultural

As mentioned above, Singapore is a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural country. Although Singaporeans, especially the young and modern citizens, are gradually changing to the Western way of working, most Singaporeans still maintain their good old traditions. Therefore, when doing business with Singaporeans, it is extremely necessary to consider whether they are of Chinese, Malay or Indian origin and behave accordingly.

2. Chinese business culture

• In meetings, the eldest person introduces themselves first, regardless of their position.
• When addressing someone, always use "Mr./Mrs./Ms." followed by their last name.

3. Malay culture

Malays make up about 13,6% of Singapore’s population. As most are Muslim, they follow Islamic customs and practices in business and daily life. The Malay culture is:

• Respect personal boudaries: Avoid physical contact with the opposite sex, such as shaking hands, hugging, or kissing. A smile is a polite and appropriate greeting.
• Prayers are usually held during working hours. Muslim employees are usually allowed to pray during working hours in a separate area of ​​the office. Prayers are held between 1pm and 4pm daily. On Fridays, Muslim male employees are allowed to take an extended lunch break to attend communal prayers at the mosque.
• Dietary restrictions: Avoid consuming pork products during meal when meeting a Muslim.

Understanding more about a country’s business culture will greatly assist investors in their business activities, living and working. Integrating but not assimilating are the golden words for business and working culture in Singapore.

From a small fishing village with scarce resources, Singapore has shown the world what determination and intelligence can achieve. Its future is set to surpass all expectations.

4. Frequently asked questions about working culture in Singapore

Highlights

• Singapore is a melting pot of Eastern and Western cultures, creating a work environment that values ​​both discipline and creativity. However, local companies still retain many traditional traits, such as respect for authority and a spirit of teamwork.

• With its multi-ethnic and religious diversity, Singapore requires flexibility in communication and behavior. Understanding the customs and habits of each ethnic group will help investors and businesses integrate easily and achieve higher business efficiency.

• Singaporeans place a high value on conformity in work and society. Businesses here often prefer to hire people who follow the rules, but the government is encouraging innovation to meet the needs of a growing global economy.

• In business culture, it is important to keep face and avoid offensive actions or words. This helps maintain long-term cooperative relationships and avoid unnecessary conflicts.