Language of Singapore: Culture
Language of Singapore: Culture
Singapore’s languages are as diverse as its people and cultures, creating worlds within worlds in this
southeast Asian megacity.
Language of Singapore
Singapore has four official languages – English, Malay, Tamil and Mandarin
Chinese. Being a former colonial country, English is the most commonly spoken and
written language. It is the lingua franca in Singapore and therefore the de facto
language used in public service and administration, trade and commerce and in the
judicial system. In writing, Singapore follows British English. However, the spoken
colloquial version of Singaporean English is locally called “Singlish”. Although Malay
is the national language of the country, only 15-17% Singaporeans speak the
language. It is officially present in the Singaporean national anthem, in military
commands and in orders and citations only. Most people in the country are bilingual
- they can speak reasonably good English and one of the three other languages as
their mother tongue.
CULTURE
Its contemporary modern culture consists of a combination of Asian and European cultures,
mainly by Malay, South Asian, East Asian and Eurasian influences. Despite being small-
sized, the local customs and cultures of Singapore are a blend of multiple ethnic
influences including Chinese, Malay, Indians and others, the reason being the
country's history as a trading hub. Some popular Singaporean customs and
traditions are:
RELIGION
Chinese Buddhism happens to be the major religion in Singapore, owing to the large
population of Southern Chinese immigrants and their descendants. Hinduism is also
prevalent, being the faith of those with South Indian heritage. Christianity is growing
quite exponentially as a belief system, and many young Singaporeans are leaning
towards it.
Cuisine
Singapore is not a cheap place to live, but a very pocket-friendly place to eat. From the
street stalls to alfresco cafes to the high-end restaurants, this country lives and breathes
delicious, mouth-watering recipes. Chinese, Indonesian, Indian and Malay dishes are most
common, although being a cosmopolitan hub, Singapore serves all kinds of cuisines.
FESTIVALS
In music, Singaporeans love folk, pop, rock and classical. The musical scene is
spearheaded by Singapore Symphony Orchestra, established in 1979, with its chief venue
at Esplanade Concert Hall. The Esplanade- Theatres on the Bay is the nation’s largest
platform for the celebration of performing arts.