10 Weird Laws in Singapore You Should Know Before You Go

“The Fine City”

Singapore is often nicknamed “The Fine City” – a clever play on words that reflects both its reputation for cleanliness and the hefty fines imposed for breaking certain rules.

Known for its order, safety and spotless streets, Singapore has some surprisingly strict laws. From restrictions on chewing gum to serious penalties for vandalism and drug offences, there are a few things every visitor should know before arriving in the Lion City.

Here are 10 unusual laws and regulations that might surprise you.

Note: Laws and regulations can change. This article is intended as a general travel guide, not legal advice. Always check the latest official information before travelling.

1. No chewing gum

The sale and import of ordinary chewing gum are prohibited in Singapore. There are some exceptions for approved dental and medicinal chewing gum, but don’t expect to find regular chewing gum in local shops.

UFO in Singapore

2. Don’t forget to flush – and never urinate in public

Although Singapore is famous for its strict public cleanliness standards, the often-repeated claim that you can be fined simply for not flushing a public toilet is misleading.

Public urination, however, is an offence and can result in a fine. So, leave public toilets clean and use them as intended!

Toilet signs

3. Same-sex relations are forbidden no longer illegal

Singapore repealed Section 377A of its Penal Code, which criminalised sexual activity between men. The repeal took effect on 3 January 2023.

Secret Affair

4. No eating or drinking on the MRT

You can enjoy Singapore’s excellent public transport system, but don’t bring your food or drinks onto the trains. Eating and drinking are prohibited on the MRT, and breaking the rule can result in a fine.

Metro warning

5. Vandalism can get you caned

ingapore takes vandalism very seriously. Defacing public or private property can lead to a fine, imprisonment and, in certain cases, caning.

Under the Vandalism Act, the punishment can include between three and eight strokes of the cane. That’s certainly a good reason to keep your graffiti ideas to yourself!

Message wall

6. Don’t walk around your home naked if people can see you

Even inside your own home, you should be careful about being seen naked from a public place.

Singapore’s law prohibits appearing nude in public or in a private place when exposed to public view. The penalty can be a fine, imprisonment, or both.

Naked mannequins

7. Attempted suicide is no longer a crime

Singapore used to criminalise attempted suicide, but the law changed in 2020. People who survive a suicide attempt are no longer punished under criminal law.

The change reflects a shift towards providing help and support to people in distress rather than treating them as criminals.

Upside down

8. A moment of pleasure? A lifetime of regret!

In Singapore, outrage of modesty is a criminal offence referring to unwanted sexual contact, such as inappropriate touching or groping. It can carry serious consequences, including imprisonment, fines and caning in certain circumstances. What might seem like a moment of pleasure could turn into a lifetime of regret!

No touching

9. Be careful with political and religious comments

Singapore places considerable importance on racial and religious harmony. There are laws addressing the promotion of hostility, incitement and offensive conduct involving religious or racial groups.

This doesn’t mean you cannot discuss politics or religion, but visitors should be mindful of local sensitivities and avoid making inflammatory remarks.

Singapore Parliament building

10. Absolutely no illegal drugs

Singapore has some of the world’s toughest drug laws. Possession, consumption, trafficking, importation and exportation of controlled drugs carry severe penalties.

Drug trafficking involving certain quantities can carry the death penalty. Singaporean citizens and permanent residents can also be prosecuted for consuming controlled drugs overseas.

Don’t take any chances with drugs in Singapore.

Death for drug traffickers – Singapore

Highlights of Singapore

• Let’s go to Singapore – An Introduction to the “Lion City”
• A Touch of the Past: Geylang – The red-light district and its old shophouses
• Singapore’s Spectacular Architecture – Exploring the city’s impressive skyline
• Cultures of Singapore – The Arab Quarter, China Town and Little India
• Fun Places to Go in Singapore