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Understandably, natives often get defensive when their behaviours are deemed bizarre by foreigners. After all, what do foreigners know about local customs?
However, this is a view from a fellow Singaporean.
Always in a hurry
A 2006 study by The British Council revealed that Singaporeans were the fastest walkers in the world. We outpace Copenhagen, Madrid, Guangzhou and Dublin (in that order).
It may be some time ago but it hasn't changed much, not counting those who are engrossed with their phones.
We also drive as if every second counts. While most motorists do not exceed the speed limit, we certainly do not give way to the car trying to switch into our lane.
In a tiny country where saving a few seconds doesn't really get us very far ahead, it's funny that we still do it all the time. So why do we rush?
Probably to join a queue
It has been said many Singaporeans find great thrill in queueing up. In fact, the longer the queue, the more irresistible it is.
The rationale could be that if there are many people in the line, the offer must be very attractive.
That's the "kiasu" spirit in action. No opportunity should be missed!
For instance, whenever there's an $8 million Toto jackpot, there will be long snaking lines of punters at Singapore Pools outlets.
Toto tickets can be purchased online but many people prefer to line up.
It's their prerogative but they will then inevitably complain about how slow the line is moving, the queue-jumpers and how hot or wet it is depending on the weather.
Also, do expect an earful of complaints if you hold up the queue.
Why suffer the hassle of waiting in line?
Because we like to complain
We complain about minor MRT delays, slightly late buses, slow-moving cyclists on the road and fast-moving cyclists on the pavements.
Recently, a netizen took to social media to gripe about having to wait behind a wheelchair on a travelator at an MRT station.
Imagine that!
While many criticised the netizen, he did garner some supporters, one of whom posted: "I totally agree that (a) wheelchair shouldn't be on travelators. Apart from being compassionate and patient, there's another aspect, consideration. The wheelchair took up too much space on it."
It seems that nothing should slow down these Singaporeans.
There are other idiosyncrasies like reserving tables at coffee shops and hawker centres with tissue packets and some even with handphones.
Do take note of these quirky habits so that you won't step on the toes of these Singaporeans.
tabla@sph.com.sg
