Singapore

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Questions and Answers

What percentage of the population in Singapore are Chinese?

76% (correct)

80%

60%

75%

What is the official name of the capital of Singapore?

Metro Manila

Singapore City

Singapore (correct)

Southeast Asia

What is the current President of Singapore?

Mr. Tharman Shanmugaratnam (correct)

Mr. Metro Manila

Mr. Singapore

Mr. Anglo-Chinese

What is the approximate land area of Singapore?

728.9 square kilometers Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the central bank and financial regulator in Singapore?

Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the inventions contributed by Singapore?

Mini-DNA sequencing machine Signup and view all the answers

What environment did the government create to attract investors?

Safe, corrupt-free, low in taxation, and unimpeded by labor unions Signup and view all the answers

What was imposed on individuals who threatened political stability and corporate unity?

Jail without a tedious trial process Signup and view all the answers

What was banned to create a predictable environment for investors?

Labor unions Signup and view all the answers

What was established to train unskilled workers?

Technical schools Signup and view all the answers

What did Singapore experience from the 1970s to the 1990s?

Sustained economic growth Signup and view all the answers

Who replaced Goh Chok Tong as prime minister in 2004?

Lee Hsien Loong Signup and view all the answers

What is the shape of the symbol on the Singaporean flag that represents a young nation on the ascendant?

Crescent moon Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary sector that contributes 90% to Singapore's economy?

Oil refining, manufacturing, banking, and finance Signup and view all the answers

What is Singapore's ranking in terms of busiest ports in the world?

Second Signup and view all the answers

What does the white color on the Singaporean flag symbolize?

Pervading and everlasting purity and virtue Signup and view all the answers

What is the ranking of Singapore in terms of per capita income?

Second highest Signup and view all the answers

What is a notable feature of the government in Singapore?

Stable government Signup and view all the answers

What is the cultural significance of shaking hands firmly in Singapore?

It is considered respectful Signup and view all the answers

What is considered impolite when eating with chopsticks in Singapore?

Sticking them upright in the bowl Signup and view all the answers

Why is tipping discouraged in Singapore?

Because a 10% service charge is already added Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of removing shoes before entering a home or place of worship in Singapore?

It's a sign of respect and humility Signup and view all the answers

How should you address older individuals in Singapore?

As 'Uncle' or 'Auntie' Signup and view all the answers

What is considered rude when interacting with others in Singapore?

Pointing with the index finger Signup and view all the answers

What is considered sacred by many in Singapore?

Head Signup and view all the answers

Why is chewing gum banned in Singapore?

To maintain the cleanliness of the country Signup and view all the answers

What type of chewing gum is allowed in Singapore?

Only chewing gum with a doctor's prescription Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Clean & Green Singapore awards?

To recognize the cleanest districts in Singapore Signup and view all the answers

What is the dress code for higher-end restaurants in Singapore?

Formal outfit and dress shoes Signup and view all the answers

What is considered dirty in Singapore?

The feet Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Geography and Demographics

Singapore is a city-state republic located in Southeast Asia, smaller than Metro Manila with a land area of 728.9 square kilometers.
The population is approximately 5.82 million, consisting of 76% Chinese, 15% Malays, and 5% Tamil Indians.

Government and Leadership

Singapore is a multi-party system and unitary parliamentary republic.
The current President is Mr. Tharman Shanmugaratnam, who was sworn in on September 14, 2023.
He has served in politics for 22 years, holding positions such as Deputy Prime Minister, Finance Minister, Education Minister, and Senior Minister.

Economy

Singapore's economy is driven by oil refining, manufacturing, banking, and finance, making up 90% of its economy.
The country is the world's second busiest port, third-largest oil refinery center, and a major hub for Asian telecommunications, trade, and banking operations.

Culture and Practices

Singaporean culture is a blend of multiple ethnic influences, including Chinese, Malay, Indians, and others.
Local customs and traditions include shaking hands firmly, removing shoes before entering homes and temples, and not pointing with fingers.
Tipping is not customary, and is even prohibited at the Changi Airport.

Cleanliness and Offenses

Singapore is known for its cleanliness, with strict laws against littering and chewing gum.
The country has a unique set of rules and regulations, with general offenses including possession of chewing gum, littering, and other actions considered petty crimes in other countries.

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