Mumbai, January 11: An Indian software engineer has sparked a viral conversation on social media after detailing the significant cultural adjustments he faced following his relocation to Singapore. In a video that has gained widespread traction among the global NRI community, the techie identified as Aman outlined four distinct "cultural shocks," ranging from the city-state's egalitarian public transport habits to its unique social etiquette. His observations have highlighted the stark differences in daily life between major Indian metros and the Southeast Asian financial hub.

The Egalitarian Metro: Millionaires on Public Transit

One of the most striking observations shared by the engineer was the universal use of public transportation. In Singapore, the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system is not just for the working class but is a primary mode of transport for high-net-worth individuals and corporate executives. ‘Stop Justifying Time Off’: Indian Man Compares India-Singapore Work Culture and Leave Policies, Viral Video Sparks Debate Online.

Indian Techie's Video on Cultural Shocks in Singapore Goes Viral

 

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The techie noted that it is common to see millionaires and top-tier professionals commuting via the metro. This is largely attributed to Singapore’s world-class infrastructure and the prohibitively high cost of car ownership, driven by the Certificate of Entitlement (COE) system, which makes owning a private vehicle a luxury even for the wealthy.

Social Etiquette: The 'Choping' Culture

A unique aspect of Singaporean life mentioned in the video is "choping" - the practice of reserving a seat at crowded hawker centres or food courts using inexpensive personal items.

The engineer expressed surprise at seeing tables "reserved" with packets of tissues, umbrellas, or even employee ID badges. In a society characterised by high levels of trust and low crime, these items are rarely stolen, and the unspoken rule of "choping" is strictly respected by locals and tourists alike.

Efficiency and Discipline

The video also touched upon the rigid discipline and efficiency ingrained in Singaporean society. The techie highlighted the "left-only" rule on escalators, where commuters consistently stand on the left to allow others to rush past on the right.

He noted that this level of social coordination extends to almost all public interactions, creating a seamless but highly structured environment that can feel overwhelming for those accustomed to the more chaotic pace of Indian urban centres. ‘You Betrayed Me’: Furious Singapore Woman Screams at Husband From Balcony in Viral Video After Discovering Female Colleague Called Him ‘Baby’.

Work-Life Boundaries and Safety

Finally, the creator praised the city-state's safety and the clear boundaries between professional and personal life. He pointed out that Singapore remains one of the safest cities in the world, allowing residents to walk alone at any hour without concern.

However, he also noted that the "hustle culture" is prevalent, though it is balanced by a high degree of transparency in corporate dealings and government services.

Singapore as a Global Tech Hub

Singapore has long been a preferred destination for Indian tech talent due to its proximity to India, favourable tax regimes, and high quality of life. According to recent migration data, the Indian community remains one of the largest expatriate groups in the country, contributing significantly to its technology and financial sectors.

The viral video has resonated with thousands of viewers, leading to a broader discussion on how urban planning and social trust can fundamentally alter the daily experience of residents.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 11, 2026 09:06 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).