Singapore is a fast-paced city in Southeast Asia. Almost six million people reside within a relatively small city! It is a popular site in Asia for all kinds of tourist and business activities. This comes with its benefits such as its efficient public transportation system, rich culture, safe streets and more. However, every rose has its thorns! What are the most common Singaporean complaints?
1. Rising Cost of Living
Land is scarce in Singapore, and resources are fewer compared to larger countries. As a result, costs of living here are high and this is one of the top Singaporean complaints.
If you find that hard to believe, this report ranked Singapore as the most expensive city in Asia and the second costliest city in the world! To live in Singapore, you would have to follow a strict budget to avoid financial issues later.
2. Hot & Unpredictable Weather
Singapore is a hot and humid country, with rain and scorching sunshine taking turns to plague and annoy those on the move. Thus, Singaporean complaints are often about the unpredictability of the weather here, such as in this Trip Advisor forum.
Some also say that weather forecasts are not to be trusted! Prepare for all kinds of weather conditions with sunglasses, a hat and an umbrella with you at all times.
3. Singapore is too small in size
Singapore is the smallest state in Southeast Asia, with only about 278 square miles to explore! Those who have lived in Singapore throughout childhood will find that they have seen it all. This leaves many Singaporeans with complaints about less options for staycations, road trips and adventure-time in their country.
Many Singaporeans head to neighboring countries on the weekends to satisfy their wanderlust.
4. Stress and anxiety
A study done just this year found that Singaporeans aged 24-55 experience high to moderate levels of stress. This report found financial matters to be the main cause of stress, as well as COVID-19 safety measures that prohibited dining out, travelling overseas and more.
This ties in with Singapore’s high cost of living and small size described above. In the same study, Singaporeans were found to cope with stress through television or video content and social media.
5. Overpopulation and lack of resource
Many Singaporeans complain about overpopulation in Singapore. It is after all the 3rd most dense city in the world! This Quora post discusses MRT breakdowns being a sign of overpopulation, as well as the high need to import foods due to lack of resources.
However, the overpopulation topic is still in debate as some argue that the high population is needed to drive and support the Singapore economy.
6. Chickens taking over the neighborhood
Yes, you read that right. Chickens are a shocking complaint by Singaporeans, and also a recent one. A report in the Straits Times about a week ago stated that complaints about chickens in neighborhoods are rising.
950 reports were made in 2021 alone about chickens in neighborhoods!
Chickens are not allowed to be reared in HDB flats due to hygiene reasons. When a report is received, HDB works to relocate the chickens, and collaborates with private homeowners to minimize their pets’ noise and smell.
7. Complaints about Online Purchases
The pandemic made us all online consumers, this is an undeniable fact. Being isolated at home led to some inevitable retail therapy as well as shopping for essentials on e-commerce platforms. As a result, Singaporean complaints from consumers after purchases of online goods spiked more than 95% in 2020 compared to 2019.
This is according to the Consumer Assocation of Singapore. Common complaints included late deliveries, damaged products and missing goods. While I’m certain online businesses have since improved their services, do take care to read reviews and make informed purchases!
8. Frequently Asked Questions
How do I report a case to Singapore?
A police report that doesn’t require immediate action can be made online here.
For emergency cases, you can call 999 or text 71999 for assistance.
How do you make a complaint?
If you as a local consumer have a complaint in regard to goods and services received, you can file a complaint to CASE, that is the Consumer Association of Singapore. This can be done online, on the phone or in person, as highlighted on their website.
Tourists that wish to file a complaint can do so with the Tourism Board of Singapore by calling 1800-736-2000 from Monday to Friday between 9am to 6pm. Alternatively, tourists can email TBS at [email protected]
What is the lemon law in Singapore?
The lemon law or Consumer Protection Act protects consumers. If a defect is found on a product within 6 months of purchase, consumers are entitled to replacement, repair or refund unless the seller can prove it was defected after purchase. This law applies to physical goods, secondhand goods, discounted items and online purchases.
Can police check your phone in Singapore?
Singapore has laws that allow police officers to check your phone if they suspect suspicious or criminal activity on it. So yes, the police can check your phone. This shouldn’t be alarming to you if you’re innocent, so do comply with the authority present.
A tip by the Singapore Police Force themselves is to request the officer’s warrant card, which is proof that the officer is of the law and to hold the officer accountable for his or her actions!
How do I start a consumer complaint?
As a consumer, you can file a complaint through the Consumer Association of Singapore as mentioned earlier.
- Call 9795 8397 between 9am-5pm on Mondays through Fridays
- Call the same number to make an appointment for counter service
- Make an online consumer complaint here.
Conclusion
If you believe in perfect paradise, Singapore doesn’t quite fit the bill. But it does have many perks, including safe streets, a modern way of life and a lot to see that you can check out here.
Despite its few let-downs such as the humidity and rising living costs, it’s worth to experience Singapore for yourself (perhaps with a budget and umbrella on hand). Keep these Singaporean complaints in mind and adjust your goals and expectations accordingly!
For more articles like this, check out the Best Local Food in Singapore!
