Smoking

Smoking on public transport, lifts, cinemas, government offices, air-conditioned restaurants and shopping centres is against the law. First offenders face a fine of up to S$1,000.

Smoking is also prohibited inside any enclosed facility and within 5 metres of entrances and exits, open windows or ventilation units.

Smoking is allowed however, in certain air-conditioned pubs, discos, karaoke bars and nightspots.

Alcohol

The legal age for the drinking or purchasing of alcoholic beverages is 18.

Littering

Littering is strictly frowned upon in Singapore and a carelessly thrown tissue could result in a S$1,000 fine for first offenders. Subsequent offenders can be fined up to S$2,000 and sentenced to Corrective Work Order, an embarrassing ordeal that requires litterbugs to spend a few hours cleaning a public place whilst wearing a bright jacket.

Drugs

A definite no-no. The death penalty is mandatory for those convicted of drug trafficking, manufacturing, importing or exporting more than 15g of heroin, 30g of morphine, 30g of cocaine, 500g of cannabis, 200g of cannabis resin and 1.2kg of opium. If you are found to possess these qualities, you are deemed as a drug trafficker, a crime that is punishable by death.

Unauthorised consumers of drugs face a maximum of 10 years in jail, a fine of S$20,000, or both.

Chewing Gum

An extension to the “no littering” mantra, sale and possession of chewing gum in Singapore is banned.

Spitting

Strict laws in Singapore also govern against spitting in public.