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The current U.S. Department of State Travel
Advisory at
the date of this report’s publication assesses Singapore at
Level 1, indicating travelers should exercise normal
precautions.
The U.S. Embassy in Singapore does not assume responsibility for the professional ability or integrity of the persons or firms appearing in this report. The American Citizen Services (ACS) unit cannot recommend a particular individual or establishment and assumes no responsibility for the quality of services provided. Review OSAC’s Singapore page for original OSAC reporting, consular messages, and contact information, some of which may be available only to private-sector representatives with an OSAC password. Overall Crime and Safety Situation Crime Threats There is minimal risk from crime in Singapore, which remains one of the safest countries in the world. Crime is generally non-confrontational and non-violent in nature. The most common crimes are those of opportunity, such as purse snatching, pickpocketing, and theft of unattended property. Violent crimes are rare. If a weapon is involved, it is likely an edged weapon (a knife or box cutter); authorities strictly control firearms, and the punishment for the possession of firearms is severe. In what appears to be an isolated and unusual incident, one U.S. citizen was the victim of an unprovoked, late-night assault in 2016 that resulted in his death. The overall rate of crime increased slightly (+1.4%) from 32,668 incidents in 2017 to 33,134 incidents in 2018. The increase in the number of crimes was due to a rise in scam-related cases. Internet romance fraud cases decreased by 20.1%. All other types of scams – such as those involving e-commerce, loans, credit for sex, and impersonation of Chinese officials – increased collectively by 36.1%, from 2,905 cases in 2017 to 3,954 in 2018. Singapore also saw an 11.9% increase in “Outrage of Modesty” (OM) offenses – a charge typically used to describe rude or inappropriate behavior – in 2018. The majority of incidents occurred on public transportation and at popular nightlife venues. With the exception of scams and OM cases, the overall crime rate dropped slightly (-1.9%) from 27,863 incidents in 2017 to 27,338 in 2018. Reports of theft and related crimes continued an overall downward trend (-8.6%), decreasing from 13,431 cases in 2017 to 12,279 in 2018 (representing an all-time low). Singapore announced a period of 165 crime-free days in 2018 with zero reports of theft, robbery, or burglary. Vandalism is a serious crime, and carries minimum sentencing that includes corporal punishment. Although Geylang and certain lower-cost government housing areas suffer from more serious crimes (e.g. mugging, loan sharking, and illicit drug use), the rate is still lower than comparable areas in the United States. Geylang is a known “red light” district, harboring prostitutes and reportedly experiencing an increase in organized criminal activity. Prostitution is legal, but various prostitution-related activities, like public solicitation, under-age prostitution, pimping, living on the earnings of a prostitute, and maintaining a brothel, are not. In practice, the police tolerate and monitor a limited number of brothels unofficially. Incidents of victims unknowingly ingesting a drug that a nefarious individual placed in their drink occasionally occur. Individuals who decide to frequent bars and nightclubs should exercise vigilance with their drinks and should not accept drinks from strangers. The areas where bars stay open late – namely Robertson, Clarke, and Boat Quays along the Singapore River, and the Orchard Towers complex on Orchard Road – represent most likely zones for travelers to become victims of crime in Singapore, especially at night. Singapore’s island-wide network of police cameras has been helpful in fighting crime. To date, Singapore police have installed over 65,000 cameras throughout the country to include 10,000 cameras in public housing and parking decks as part of a program known as PolCam – a multi-year public initiative to enhance the safety and security of neighborhoods and public spaces through the use of a large network of police cameras. With the rollout of PolCam 2.0 over the next few years, authorities will progressively install 11,000 additional cameras with enhanced capabilities across the country. The Singapore Police Force (SPF) stresses the role of the private sector and the general public in effectively fighting both crime and terrorism. The SPF has established many outreach initiatives to help the average citizen report crimes. A decrease in the number of motor vehicle-related thefts, for example, may be partly attributed to the Police Vehicle on Watch (VOW) project. To date, cameras in more than 10,000 private vehicles in over 800 parking lots across Singapore serve as additional “eyes,” deterring crime, recording incidents, and providing crucial leads for police investigations. Additionally, police reported receiving more than 35,000 submissions from the public via the Police@SG mobile application that assisted in solving criminal cases. To counter the growing trend of scams, the SPF launched the “Let’s Fight Scams” campaign, disseminated scam crime advisories to all Singaporean households, and worked with key stakeholders in the community to educate the public against scams. Cybersecurity Issues The prevalence of internet penetration and the growing use of smartphones in Singapore have contributed to an increase in cybercrime; foreign syndicates operating online are responsible for much of it. Cases under the Computer Misuse Act increased by 40.3%, from 858 cases in 2017 to 1,204 in 2018. Examples of such crime include unauthorized access to online accounts, unauthorized purchases using credit/debit cards, and phishing emails designed to obtain sensitive personal information. Credit-for-sex scams involve men posing as attractive women on social media in order to convince unsuspecting men to buy them gift cards in exchange for the promise of meeting, going on a date, and/or sexual services. Such scams increased by 28.7%, from 414 cases in 2017 to 533 in 2018. The total financial loss of such scams was approximately US $1.1 million.
The website https://www.scamalert.sg/ provides information on the latest scams and allows the public to share their experiences. Scams can also be reported to authorities at the Anti-Scam Helpline (1-800-722-6688). Transportation-Safety Situation Road Safety and Road Conditions Singapore is a right-side drive nation with first-world road conditions. These include well-illuminated and well-paved thoroughfares with English-language signage and four- to six-lane expressways that span the country. Although traffic can be a bit more hectic than what is common in the U.S. (with drivers seemingly occupying two lanes at once and motorcycles darting from lane to lane between cars), serious traffic accidents are relatively uncommon. Drivers should remain vigilant and cautious, as police regularly enforce speeding violations via speed cameras. Drivers should recognize the difficulty posed by frequent, sometimes heavy downpours that can release several inches of water onto the road in minutes. Public Transportation Conditions Because of the government’s significant emphasis on promoting public transportation, Singapore offers a wide variety of publicly accessible forms of transit (e.g. bus, rail, taxi, and increasingly, ride-share services). At least half of Singapore’s population uses public transportation, with approximately 5.4 million trips made each day. Singapore's public transportation system includes Light Rail Transit (LRT), Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), and buses. The MRT network encompasses 170.7 kilometers (106.1 miles) of track, with five lines and over 100 stations in operation. SMRT Trains (SMRT Corporation) operate the North-South Line, East-West Line, and Circle Line, while SBS Transit runs the North-East Line and Downtown Line. Although buses still enjoy an average daily ridership exceeding twice the number carried on both the MRT and LRT systems, the Land Transport Authority plans to expand the rail system such that buses will play only a feeder role to an extensive rail network. Aviation/Airport Conditions Singapore’s Changi International Airport (SIN), with its four terminals, is one of the most important aviation hubs in the region. Changi Airport handles over 65 million passengers each year and is the best in the world in terms of customer satisfaction for several years running. Terrorism Threat Local, Regional, and International Terrorism Threats/Concerns There is minimal risk from terrorism in Singapore. The Singaporean government regularly cites terrorism as one of its top concerns, and is keenly aware of the threats posed by self-radicalized Singaporeans and the possibility of returning terrorist fighters. A small number of Singaporean citizens have traveled to Syria to join ISIS. Authorities have also expressed concerns that self-radicalized terrorists or from Singapore or neighboring countries may become a security issue. As part of an effort to address these concerns, the government has continued to make use of the Internal Security Act (ISA), which authorizes the arrest and detention of individuals suspected of involvement in terrorist activities for up to two years without trial. In the past two years, the government has issued a Restriction Order and/or an Order of Detention under the ISA against eight self-radicalized Singaporeans, bringing the total number of issuances since 2015 to 22. Singaporean officials frequently emphasize the importance of community involvement and preparedness as a critical element in national security. In 2016, the government launched a mobile app called SGSecure to prepare the community against the threat of terrorism. The app allows members of the public to receive alerts during terrorist attacks or other emergencies, to send information to the authorities, and to download information and resources on counterterrorism. SGSecure programs in schools, workplaces, neighborhoods, and community groups strengthen individual and institutional preparedness. Following the launch of SGSecure, Singapore’s Home Team has been training local communities to help prevent and respond to terrorist attacks. Emergency Preparedness days are held during the year to prepare first responders and the public for a terror attack. Other initiatives include the formation of neighborhood volunteer groups composed of citizens instructed on life-saving skills like CPR and the use of an automated external defibrillator. Political, Economic, Religious, and Ethnic Violence There is minimal risk from political violence in Singapore. Singapore has one of the most stable governments in the world, and remains largely free of civil unrest or political violence. The government is generally competent in managing the economy, and largely free from political corruption. Although the constitution provides for the freedoms of speech and expression, the government imposes official restrictions on these rights. The incumbent People’s Action Party (PAP) first assumed power prior to Singapore’s independence in 1959, and has won a majority in every general election since 1965. Some criticize the PAP for maintaining its political dominance in part by circumscribing political discourse and action to include the restriction of opposition parties. A constitutional provision, however, assures at least nine opposition members hold seats in parliament. Observers considered the 2015national elections, which included eight opposition parties, free and fair. Civil Unrest Public demonstrations are legal only at Speakers’ Corner in Hong Lim Park. Most outdoor public assemblies require a police permit. Singapore amended its laws in 2017 to forbid foreign nationals who are not permanent residents from observing permitted public demonstrations, assemblies, and processions at Speakers’ Corner. The law does not distinguish between participants and observers, so authorities may consider anyone at Speakers’ Corner as part of an event. Penalties may be severe, including large fines and/or imprisonment. Post-specific Concerns Environmental Hazards Singapore has not experienced significant natural disasters in recent years. In September-October 2015, a thick haze from burning brush in Indonesian Sumatra covered much of the country, elevating health risks for segments of the population prone to respiratory problems, and disrupting business and international flights. Economic Concerns Singapore’s judicial system is recognized around the world for its legitimacy and impartiality under the law. Despite the emergence of cyber and economic crime, Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index ranks Singapore as the third least corrupt country in the world. The Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) is an independent government agency that investigates and prosecutes corruption. Personal Identity Concerns The law strictly prohibits rude and disorderly behavior – particularly when directed toward women. Police firmly enforce rules against such behavior, known as “Outrage of Modesty;” severe penalties include corporal punishment and imprisonment. Singapore does not recognize same-sex unions. The Penal Code criminalizes male same-sex sexual relations, and prescribes a sentence not exceeding two years for those found guilty under this law. The government has stated that it will not enforce this section of the Penal Code, but it remains on the statute books. The government issues permits for public events that openly champion LGBTI issues on a limited basis, but new regulations restrict foreign involvement. Singapore has established a comprehensive code of standards for barrier-free accessibility, including facilities for persons with physical disabilities, in all new buildings and has mandated the progressive upgrading of older structures. Singapore does not recognize dual nationality beyond the age of 22, and strictly enforces universal national service for all male citizens and permanent residents. Drug-related Crimes Even minor drug use or possession will result in imprisonment. Despite strict laws with severe punishment, drugs exist in Singapore. Methamphetamines, heroin, and new psychoactive substances are the top three categories of illegal drug use in Singapore. Drug arrests in Singapore increased by 11% in 2018; of those, 40% were first-time offenders and nearly two-thirds of them were under the age of 30. Authorities enforce severe penalties for narcotics trafficking, up to and including the death penalty and corporal punishment even for the distribution of small quantities of drugs. Kidnapping Threat Kidnappings are uncommon. There have only been three confirmed cases of kidnapping for ransom in the last 12 years; police arrested and jailed for life all perpetrators. The last kidnapping for ransom occurred in 2014, when the CEO of a popular supermarket chain received a call from a stranger demanding a multi-million dollar ransom for the return of his elderly mother. He negotiated the ransom down, and under instructions from the kidnappers, dropped the ransom at a local park. Kidnappers released the victim a few hours later. Police subsequently arrested two kidnappers and recovered the ransom, convicting the two suspects and sentencing them to life imprisonment. Kidnapping scams, in which a perpetrator calls a victim and advises him/her that a member of the faily has been kidnapped and will be harmed unless a ransom is paid, may be more likely to occur than actual kidnappings. Police Response The police response to crime is professional and effective. The online platform i-Witness allows individuals to provide information about criminal activity to the police. In 2018, the police received more than 35,000 submissions from the public. How to Handle Incidents of Police Detention or Harassment Authorities routinely hold passports and prevent the departure of people under police investigation for criminal charges. Arrested or detained U.S. citizens should immediately ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy. Find more information on the U.S. Embassy webpage. The Embassy handles reports involving police harassment promptly and in accordance with prescribed regulations. Crime Victim Assistance Individuals requiring police assistance should dial 999. Every district has a dedicated neighborhood police center. Any neighborhood police center, not just the district where the crime took place, will generally accept the filing of a police report. Orchard Road Shopping District Police: + (65) 6733-0000 Central Business District Police: + (65) 6334-0000 Medical Emergencies Healthcare services are generally first-rate; private citizens from around the world travel to Singapore for medical treatment. Most doctors and hospital staff speak fluent English. Most hospitals have medical centers with doctors practicing a wide variety of specialties. In the event of medical emergency, dial 995. Ambulance services are available across Singapore, though response times may vary. Contact Information for Available Medical Services For medical assistance, refer to the Embassy’s Medical Assistance page. Available Air Ambulance Services Singapore is a preferred regional medical evacuation destination for the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. private sector. Air ambulance services providing evacuation services from Singapore are typically not required. Insurance Guidance Doctors and hospitals usually expect immediate, up-front payment for health services by credit card or cash. U.S. health insurance is generally not accepted. Practitioners may require a substantial deposit before admitting patients for any major medical treatment. See the Consular Affairs webpage for information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Country-specific Vaccination and Health Guidance Singapore occasionally experiences outbreaks of mosquito-transmitted illnesses. Extreme air pollution and haze may occur doing the summer months. The CDC offers additional information on vaccines and health guidance for Singapore. OSAC Country Council Information The OSAC Singapore Country Council is very active. OSAC constituents who are interested in participating in the Country Council or contacting the Regional Security Officer (RSO) should email OSAC’s East Asia-Pacific team with any questions. U.S. Embassy Location and Contact Information Embassy Address and Hours of Operation U.S. Embassy Singapore, 27 Napier Road, Singapore 258508 Embassy Contact Numbers Hours: Monday-Friday, 0830-1200; Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, 1330-1500 (except U.S. and local holidays) Switchboard: + (65) 6476-9100 (including after-hour emergencies) Website: http://sg.usembassy.gov Embassy Guidance U.S. citizens traveling to Singapore should register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to ensure they receive pertinent security updates and notices. Additional Resources Singapore Country Information Sheet |
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