Eating On The Train Is Not Allowed

Shazia Mehboob

Singapore: On the evening of August 6, 2023, we were on an exposure trip to the city of Singapore. Everyone was busy chit-chatting on a fast-moving train somewhere near an underground train station when suddenly a local commuter came to Won Mo Yu, a fellow from South Korea, touches his shoulder to get his attention, conveys a message in his ear, and leaves the train.

Everyone has observed this unusual action and is curious to know who he was. What did he convey to Won? Why did he do so? When asked, Won said that the stranger was saying, “Drinking on the train is not allowed”. The man had left the train, but still, discussion around his action continued for some time. We were looking at each other with curious eyes when Zaik, a member of the AJF team, told us eating or drinking during travel is not allowed here and that locals are very particular about their norms.

Earlier, Zaik had also guided us to dispose of leftovers at a specific place at a local food market; otherwise, we could be charged a fine for violation of their established norms. There are many other norms being observed in Singapore that are not only unique on their own but are also being practiced in their true letter and spirit in all sectors of the economy, Zaik said.

If you are having a meal at a restaurant or any other eatery outlet, you are supposed to dispose of the leftovers at their fixed place, or if you are not doing so, you will not only be faced with embarrassment at the hands of the locals but legal implications, he informed.

Zaik had also briefed us about some norms being practiced at the market, but a local commuter could be so strict that the violation of their norms was no less than an inspiring surprise for many of us.

Singapore’s land area includes as many as 64 offshore islands that surround the main island. These islands include Sentosa, a popular island resort with myriad attractions and havens for nature lovers, like Pulau Ubin, and St. John’s Islands, and locals on these islands are equally particular about their social norms and follow rules.

The local people speak Singlish. Singlish is a collection of colloquial catchphrases and lingo influenced by Singapore’s multiculturalism. Local people are called Singaporeans. Singaporeans also tend to refer to strangers such as cab drivers and hawker centre stall owners as Aunties and Uncles. This is an enduring way of addressing older gentlemen and ladies.

Here, social norms are not limited to Singapore City but to the entire country and islands at a distance.

The writer is AJF fellow from Pakistan  and a PhD aspirant.

Photo credit: Mav Gonzales