10 Cultural Taboos in Singapore To Avoid | The Beat
Singapore/ Vibe/ Trends

In Case You Need 'Em: 10 Cultural Taboos in Singapore That Every Tourist Should Avoid

Cultural taboos in Singapore

Any activity or behavior that deviates from social norms is considered taboo. Determining whether something is a taboo largely depends on morals, culture, and religion.

If you’re in a foreign country, knowing these taboos is important to save yourself from awkward glares and, in extreme cases, hefty punishments. In Singapore, there are certain social customs you need to adhere to, as well as practices you should avoid. In this article, we listed some cultural taboos in Singapore that you should be aware of before visiting the city.

Being Late is an Insult

Punctuality is important when you’re doing business in Singapore. Keeping someone waiting or coming in late for an appointment is considered an insult especially if it involves business executives.

Compliments on Appearance are Insincere

When you want to compliment a Singaporean, you should focus on commending their accomplishments because praising their appearance would sound like you’re being pretentious.




Correcting an Older Person

In Singapore’s business customs, it is believed that the oldest member is the most competent and should thereby take the higher position. Hence, it is taboo to disagree or correct an older person in public to avoid humiliation and loss of respect.

Criticize your Homeland or Country

Talking badly about the government and the city-island as a whole is a no-no in Singapore. The general public may find this person or critic as scandalous, rude, and unpatriotic.

Moving Things Using Your Feet

It is also a cultural taboo in Singapore to touch or move things using your feet because they believe that this body part is unclean.

Snacking on Public Transport

Eating and drinking while riding the Singapore mass transit systems would get you in trouble. Since 1987, Singapore views eating or drinking on all public transport as a cultural taboo. Those caught violating this rule will be charged S$500. And yes, even chewing gum is not allowed.

Staring

Even when you’re having a private conversation, it is a sign of respect to break eye contact or avoid staring at a person.




Too Quick to Response

As part of Singaporean’s listening etiquette, you should be very careful when responding to someone you’re talking to. Avoid interrupting the person you’re talking with. When you respond, try not to make it in a hurried manner.

Yelling or Speaking Loudly

As part of cultural taboos in Singapore, a person is expected to speak in a low and calm tone. Raising your voice may indicate intense and negative emotions like anger and disappointment.

Spitting in Public

Regardless of your location, spitting on roads or expelling nasal mucous is unhygienic and may transmit contagious diseases. In Singapore, this behavior is punishable with a fine of up to S$1,000. In some cases, people caught spitting in public could face lawsuits.


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This Week's Events In Singapore

Singapore/ Vibe/ Happenings

Affordable Art Fair Returns to Singapore This November

Affordable Art Fair 2 Photo by Affordable Art Fair

This November, Affordable Art Fair is marking its 15th edition. The longest-running international art fair in Singapore promises to be an exciting event for seasoned art collectors and newcomers eager to start their collections.

From Nov. 7 to Nov. 10, 2024, art enthusiasts can explore thousands of unique contemporary pieces from 80+ galleries.

Building on the success of last year’s fair, which drew 16,000 visitors and achieved record sales of SG$5 million, this year’s event will showcase a fresh and diverse range of art. Expect to see artworks from both established and emerging artists, with pieces priced under SG$15,000.

Bruno Gallery work
Affordable Art Fair

The fair will feature a mix of local Singapore galleries alongside international exhibitors from Brooklyn, Brighton, San Francisco, and Seoul, to name a few. In addition to browsing art, attendees can enjoy hands-on workshops, large-scale installations, and various artist performances.

A Gallery
Affordable Art Fair

While art collectors will have plenty of contemporary artworks to choose from, the event will also make for a perfect outing with friends and family.

Affordable Art Fair will feature family activities, live music, curated art workshops, as well as a variety of delicious food and drink options. Enjoy a glass or two while enjoying the art and join in on the fun. Plus, don’t miss out on the Special Projects lined up for the weekend.

Tickets are available now, ranging from S$12 to S$30, with Advanced Ticket Sales ending on 3 Nov. To learn more, you can visit their website and check out their Instagram and Facebook for more updates.

Location: F1 Pit Building, 1 Republic Boulevard, Singapore 038975

Opening Hours: Open Friday, Nov. 8 from 11 AM to 6 PM, Saturday Nov. 9, from 11 AM to 7 PM, and Sunday Nov. 10, from 11 AM to 6 PM.

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Singapore/ Vibe/ Artists

Singaporean Communities Come Together for Food-Inspired Art Installation

Teck Ghee PAF Kueh Normous Workshop Participants Photo by PAssionArts Festival

Kueh holds fond memories for many Singaporeans. Described as bite-sized sweetmeats, kueh comes in a versatile range of colors and flavors. Beloved and comforting, they are among the multitude of traditional foodstuffs that make Singapore a rich gastronomic destination.

Inspired by the love and connective power of such food, artists Benedict Yu, Chen Shicai, and Liz Chu led a community of Teck Ghee residents into creating an incredible installation entitled “Kueh-Normous Creations.”

Done as part of the three-month PAssionArts Festival celebration, “Kueh-Normous Creations” aimed to bring Singaporean families and neighbors together. It featured a 20 square meter quilted picnic mat, 10 kilograms of cardboard and mooncake boxes, and centrepieces of local kueh desserts and mooncake. A community effort led by the three aforementioned artists, the installation took four workshops, two weekends, and 40 participants to complete; it was unveiled last September 14, 2024 at the Teck Ghee Lantern Night.

“[For the installation], children and elderly residents – some of whom had never sewn or worked with recycled materials before – came together to create something meaningful,” recalled Taiwanese Singaporean artist, Benedict Yu. “By the end of the workshops, many of us—volunteers, participants, and artists—had formed strong friendships.”

Families working together
PAssionArts Festival

Heartwarming in its origin, the celebration came together as a homage to local tradition. “Singapore, with its rapid pace of modernity, faces the risk of losing touch with its cultural roots,” Benedict noted. Renowned for tech innovations and modernity, Singapore is often seen as urbanite and cosmopolitan. But to disregard its rich tradition would mean misappropriating Singapore’s multi-faceted identity.

“I was born into a Peranakan family and have lived in an area surrounded by Indian and Malay influences,” recalled award-winning self-taught artist, Chen Shichai. “I know that many hidden talents and flavours lie beneath Singapore’s surface.”

A woman helps with sewing the giant quilt
PAssionArts Festival

For “Kueh-Normous Creations,” Benedict, Shichai, and interdisciplinary art practitioner and curator, Liz Chu, fostered an environment that welcomed everyone, regardless of age or skillset. “We . . . allowed each participant to bring their unique perspective and express their creativity through food as a common medium,” explained Shichai. “This initiative was not just about the end product, but about the joy of collaboration and the feeling of community.”

According to Benedict, many participants had never even worked with sewing machines or made art before. Yet, they embraced the challenge.

“One woman who, after learning to use the sewing machine, stayed longer to help complete the fabric mat,” Benedict recalled. “The children, too, learned about different types of kueh they hadn’t encountered before.”

People of all ages shared ideas with Benedict, Liz, and Shichai; they experimented with colors, patterns, and textures to recreate their favorite and most treasured kueh.

Families celebrate the incredible installation
PAssionArts Festival

“Kueh-Normous Creations” further proves that language isn’t the only way to connect. Art and food, are a few other ways where people can find common ground and meaning. “Food is fundamental and essential,” Liz acknowledged. “Everyone knows something about food, and because it carries so much cultural significance, it naturally opens up discussions about heritage and sharing stories around food.”

Art, on the other hand, reveals something deeply personal and often vulnerable [about someone],” added Benedict. “When you share art, you’re offering a glimpse into a side of yourself that others may not have seen before. This act of sharing fosters trust, creating a genuine, unfiltered connection.”

“Every creation is susceptible to criticism, but if an artwork does not harm other communities and avoids provocation, it should be considered genuine and trustworthy in its expression,” finished Shichai.

Families at the "Kueh-Normous Creations" installation
PAssionArts Festival

Needless to say, the “Kueh-Normous Creations” installation was a big hit.

Former Singaporean Prime Minister, Lee Hsien Loong, featured the artwork on his social media page, and a quick look at attendees’ faces show genuine happiness and warmth.

Should tourists wish to experience the country’s most authentic kueh for themselves, the artists recommend trying different kinds – as well as a few of their favorite dishes!

For his part, Benedict recommends kuay chap, a local noodle dish made with flat rice noodles; Shichai loves kueh salat topped with the popular Mao Shan Wang durian variety, and Liz loves a good curry rice or curry fish head.

Experience the rich gastronomy of Singapore for yourself, whether through art or through the incredible smells and flavors of local cuisine.

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Singapore/ Vibe/ Artists

Sculptor Daniel Yu Turns Disney’s Donald Duck into ‘Jiangshi’ Collectible

Donald Duck JS 2 Photo by Courtesy of Disney

Among the many beloved Disney characters, a handful of classics stand out. Of course, there’s Mickey Mouse, arguably Walt Disney’s most iconic character. There's also his friends, of whose success no one can discount. All of them together have entertained generations – and continue to do so today.

Starring in multiple movies, TV shows, and series, Mickey is often accompanied by none other than Donald Duck, his mischievous, short-tempered friend, who’s become as much of an icon as Mickey himself.

Introduced six years after Mickey’s first appearance on “Steamboat Willie”, Donald Duck has captured the hearts and imaginations of many. Among these is Daniel Yu, a renowned Singaporean toy artist and sculptor. This year, he’s transformed Donald – who’s celebrating his 90th birthday this year, in fact – in a well-known style, sculpting Donald in a traditional “jiangshi” costume.

The Donald Duck Jiangshi
Courtesy of Disney

A popular character in Chinese folklore, the “jiangshi” is often presented as vampire that is mobilized by hopping. It is traditionally spooky, but when combined with the charm of Donald becomes something both nostalgic and, quite frankly, adorable. “The juxtaposition between celebrated, well-loved and a character from traditional folklore [is what makes the toy so popular],” mused Daniel.

Coming as a limited edition 6.5-inch figurine, the Donald “Jiangshi” is cast in high-quality vinyl and features five points of articulation with regular joints. In 2022, Daniel had, in fact, also reimagined Mickey Mouse as a “jiangshi”, establishing that there is a strong market for such designs.

“I grew up in the 80s and 90s, when offbeat and campy shows, gritty comic books, and outlandish and wacky action figures were all the rage,” Daniel recalled. While the artist has no formal background in art – having pursued a business education instead – it become obvious that his childhood is exceptionally impactful. “I started [out sculpting] by ‘Frankenstein-ing’ parts of different toys together to make a new character, and eventually progressed into learning how to sculpt to make the figures more authentic,” he said.

Daniel Yu working on his sculptures
Courtesy of Daniel Yu

Now a bona fide toy sculptor, Daniel has seen firsthand how the demand for toy collectibles has boomed. Backed by Alex Baillie, the Vice President and General Manager of Disney Consumer Products across Southeast Asia, India, and the Middle East (SAMENA), Daniel pointed to nostalgia and pop culture as a main trendsetter when it comes to collectibles such as his. “Art toys represent a generation that values individuality and the creative spirit, set in a backdrop steeped in popular culture,” Daniel explained.

Alex further added that there’s been a growing demand for two types of collectibles: replicas and reimagined designs. No longer are collectibles and character merchandise niche pieces, they’ve become accessible forms of art that anybody can enjoy. “Replicas appeal to fans who are looking to celebrate iconic moments or characters while reimagined designs – like the Donald Duck-themed ‘jiangshi’ figurines – offer a fresh take on beloved Disney characters,” explained Alex.

Working with artists across different countries, Alex points to a variety of collections that have reimagined Disney characters in different art styles. These include works done by cult brand, tokidoki, and homegrown Singaporean label, Musoka Club, ranging from collectibles to apparel.

Daniel Yu's works
Courtesy of Daniel Yu

While different people collect for different reasons, there seems to be a central theme as to why people love these items: sheer joy. “Value is subjective and everyone collects for their own reasons,” Daniel points out. While some people may see collectibles as a pecuniary hobby – owning collections worth incredible sums – others see it as an experiential one. Alongside memories, friendships are built on common interests and collectors may find rich experiences connecting to others who are like-minded.

For himself, Daniel sees toys and collectibles – like his Donald Duck “jiangshi” creation – through an emotional, and deeply personal, lens. “Like a good piece of art, a good collectible is something that resonates with the viewer. It should elicit a response, a feeling of some kind,” he shared. “Your collection is a physical, tactile reminder of your personal identity and is also an accessible way of showing others ‘this is who I am.’”

The Donald-inspired Jiangshi figurine is currently available for pre-order at ActionCity’s website, retailing at SGD208 before shipping. You can also visit their stores to pre-order.

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Singapore/ Vibe/ Pop Culture

POP MART’s Molly First-Ever Anniversary Statues POP-Up Store in Singapore

Molly Photo by POP MART

POP MART toys are all the rage now and if you’ve ever walked into one of their stores, you probably would have seen this adorable little girl with big blue eyes and pouty lips, sporting adorable outfits.

Yes, we’re talking about Molly, one of POP MART’s iconic characters. Fans of this cute figure will be thrilled to know that the toy company just announced another major event in line with the upcoming Pop Toy Show (PTS) in Singapore happening this Aug. 23 to 25 that will offer Molly fans a chance to immerse themselves in her whimsical universe.

The Molly Anniversary Statues POP-Up Store is the first of its kind and will feature thematic displays inspired by the Classic Retro Series 2, and a wide range of exclusive Molly offerings for fans to get their hands on. The pop-up event will be located at CapitaLand’s Bugis Junction and will run from Aug. 27 to Sept. 22.

“This anniversary POP-up is a celebration of Molly’s legacy, a tribute to the journey we've shared with our fans, and an invitation for everyone to immerse themselves in this unique retail experience, discovering exclusive merchandise and activities that speak to the heart of the Molly fans,” Jeremy Lee, Go-to-Market Director, Southeast Asia, POP MART International, said. “Our partnership with CapitaLand has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life, and together, we’ve created another unforgettable experience for the community.”

Walk Down Molly Memory Lane: Highlights

There are a lot of things fans should look forward to at the event, from event-exclusive merchandise to photo opportunities with life-sized Molly sculptures!

There will be five new Molly merchandise from the Classical Retro Series available only at the pop-up store such as scented candle blind boxes, fridge magnets, and more. There are also eight other event-exclusive merch up for grabs, including the reproduced limited edition 1st Anniversary statue, which is a must-have for collectors.

For a minimum spend, you will also be able to receive Singapore-exclusive Molly-themed gifts, like folders, fans, postcards, and tote bags.

Apart from the exclusive launches, the store will also feature a display of archival Molly figures, showcasing the evolution of this iconic character from the first-generation Molly to other milestone series such as Molly Zodiac.

Hoping to show your love for Molly? There are various photo spots at the store including two 1.8-meter and one 1.6-meter tall life-sized sculptures! The store will also be hosting fringe activities to engage fans like silk-screening sessions (with a minimum purchase) with Singapore elements and Molly Fun Stamping, where you can get three different Molly stamps for free.

Pop Toy Show 2024

Another event for art toy collectors and POP MART fans should look forward to is the three-day extravaganza happening a few days before The Molly Anniversary Statues Pop-Up Store opens.

The POP TOY SHOW (PTS) will be held from Aug. 23 to 25 at Sands Expo and Convention Centre, featuring an all-star lineup of exciting collaborations and artists that is sure to one-up its inaugural event last year.

Get the chance to witness exclusive collaborations and first-launch collectibles. Some of the highlights include:

Exclusive to PTS 2024:

  • KUBO Never Say Goodbye Figure
  • HACIPUPU Nine-Tailed Fox
  • ANGRY MOLLY - GREEN Fire | Designer Toy
  • DIMOO-Pray For Blooming

First Launches:

  • CRYBABY I CALL THE SHOT – Original Version
  • MOLLY The Rhythm of Kung Fu Wing Chun Figure
  • Hirono x Polar Coexistence Figure

POP MART is also launching a new Molly product line inspired by traditional Chinese culture, featuring hanging cards. Kenny Wong, the creator of Molly, drew inspiration from Chinese Kung Fu, specifically Wing Chun. The model [MOLLY The Rhythm of Kung Fu Wing Chun] is the first in the traditional culture series.

Other renowned artists will also grace the exhibition such as BAO, the artist behind Kubo, and Dan, the creator of Zsiga. Two POP MART newbie artists are also making their Singapore debut: Hanna Li, the artist of Chaka, and Da Xin, the artist behind Twinkle Twinkle.

Other international artists will also be at the event to showcase their latest works, such as Luke Chueh, Louis De Guzman, Simone Legno, Alex Solis, Po Yun Wang, Mumbot and Poohbrezzy.

Tickets are currently on sale via Ticketmaster and are available in standard one-day (S$32), standard three-day (S$68), three-day premium (S$168), and 4-pax one-day (S$90) passes. Early bird tickets start from S$28. You can buy them here.

For more information on figure launches and updates on exclusive drops, follow PTS Singapore and POP MART Singapore.

The Molly Anniversary Statues POP-Up Store

Venue: CapitaLand’s Bugis Junction Level 1 Malay Street, Singapore

Dates: Aug. 27 - Sept. 22, 2024

Pop Toy Show 2024

Venue: Sands Expo and Convention Centre, 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore

Dates: Aug. 23 – 25, 2024

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Singapore/ Vibe/ Pop Culture

Marvel Introduces New Singaporean Teen Mutant for 'Uncanny X-Men #2'

Meet Jitter Marvels Newest Singaporean X Men Mutant Photo by Website/Marvel

If you are an avid Marvel fan, especially if you’ve read the comic books, you’re probably familiar with characters such as Wolverine, Gambit, and Rogue. Well, get ready for the next level of action, as Marvel has introduced a new wave of powerful mutants, one of whom hails from the Lion City.

Meet Singaporean teen Sofia Yong, also known as Jitter, one of Marvel’s newest mutants. According to the preview by Marvel, Jitter carries the power of “hyper-focus,” which allows her to do anything that she can set her mind to and mimic any skill.

However, the character bears a significant weakness, as she can only channel any skill within a minute; hence, she keeps a stopwatch to manage her ability.

Gail Simone's Uncanny X-Men #2, Jitter Digital Trading Card
Photo by Website/Marvel

The teen mutant is slated to appear in Gail Simone’s “Uncanny X-Men #2” for its 2024 edition, where she will be facing the X-Men's master of kinetic energy, Gambit. The new chapter will also follow the story of the X-Men in the post-Krakoa world.

Aside from Jitter, three other mutants will be facing off with the X-Men with their unique powers: Calico, an American mutant who carries the power of psychic connection with her steed, Ember; Ransom, a Buenos Aires-born mutant with a “Black Hole Heart;” and Deathdream, a Japanese mutant who can summon souls of the dead.

Gail Simone's Uncanny X-Men #2 Comic Book Preview Art
Photo by Website/Marvel
Gail Simone's Uncanny X-Men #2 Comic Book Preview Art

Marvel fans also have a lot more to look forward to this year and in 2025, as the entertainment studio has dropped some exciting announcements in the recent “D23 2024: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event,” held from Aug. 9 to 11 at Anaheim, California. Read our full recap of D23 2024 here.

Find out how these characters’ stories will unfold by getting your copy of “Uncanny X-Men #2” at your local comic book shop, on sale starting Sept. 11. You can also get your digital copy by downloading and subscribing to the Marvel Unlimited app.

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Singapore/ Vibe/ Artists

The Beat Singapore's Up-and-Coming Artist: Singer-Songwriter Sherman Zhuo

UAC SGP Sherman Zhuo

The Beat Singapore’s Up and Coming is a series where we feature rising talented artists from Singapore, giving them a platform to share what they’re passionate about and promote the music they (and us too!) would love for the world to hear. Do you want or know someone who wants to be featured? Email us at [email protected] or slide into our DMs on Facebook or Instagram!

“Music is a powerful tool for recovery and provides positive energy to move forward in life.”

This is how Sherman Zhuo, an up-and-coming singer and songwriter from Singapore, describes music. For him, music isn’t just a hobby, but a lifeline that helps him navigate the chaos of life. With this as an inspiration, the singer-songwriter is making his way to our hearts, bringing with him comforting vocals, swoon-worthy beats, and heartwarming lyrics.

This month, the singer brings more feels than ever with the release of his latest single, “endless shine,” a consoling track made in collaboration with leading residential electricity retailer Geneco. In the song, he bares his own experiences in dealing with mental health debacles and encourages his listeners to “take a step back and slow down.”

In an exclusive interview, The Beat Asia spoke to the singer-songwriter about his beginnings, his music, “endless shine,” dream collaborations, and many more. Read on to learn more about this talented crooner.

Hi Sherman! Could you tell us a bit about yourself?

I'm a local singer/songwriter who has loved music and singing for as long as I can remember. While I'm not typically a huge risk-taker, pursuing music full-time is definitely one of the biggest risks I've taken in life. However, it's also one of the main reasons I feel extremely happy and fulfilled.

Random fact: In recent years, my love for cats has grown a lot. (laughs)

The Beat Singapore's Up-and-Coming Artist Sherman Zhuo

How did you get into music? What sparked your interest in the craft?

I've always loved singing; it was a huge part of my childhood. My dad sings really well, which sparked my interest in music and singing. When I was younger, I’d watch TV shows and sing the theme songs, using the remote control as my microphone! In my teenage years, I picked up the guitar, which paved the way for me to record covers and perform songs in my own style. This gave me an outlet to express myself and show how I interpret certain songs. Since I'm not the best at expressing myself through words, music and songwriting provide me with that outlet.

You recently participated in Geneco's 'here, sunrise x sunset' campaign with the song 'endless shine.' What pushed you to join in on the campaign?

As a singer-songwriter, I’ve encountered personal struggles navigating through societal norms and expectations. The importance of mental wellness is imperative to me, especially in Singapore, where social media often leads to unhealthy comparisons that hurt individuals' mental health. Promoting and advocating for mental health awareness has become a cause close to my heart as an artist.

Geneco’s brand mission to #PowerTheChange resonates with me deeply. While they are Singapore’s leading residential electricity retailer, #PowerTheChange goes beyond energy and power, highlighting Geneco’s commitment to contributing to the overall well-being of our society. I'm excited to partner with Geneco, driving meaningful change in our community.

I want to encourage youth's mental wellness through my music, helping to destigmatize conversations around mental health. Music is a powerful tool for recovery and provides positive energy to move forward in life. I hope to use my music to inspire and uplift, promoting mental wellness and resilience.

Can you tell us more about this heartwarming song, how it came to be, and what inspired you for its lyrics?

I believe mental health is a crucial topic, especially in this day and age. Pursuing music as a full-time career is not the most conventional path, so I often struggle with self-doubt and imposter syndrome. When these thoughts become overwhelming, they can lead to depressive episodes that are difficult to overcome.

To break out of that state, I exercise, avoid beating myself up over unproductive days, talk to close friends, and read encouraging materials online.

I wanted the melody to be heartwarming and uplifting, providing comfort to anyone who listens. The lyrics combine my own experiences with my favorite quotes that have helped me through tough times.

"endless shine" is written as a letter to myself and to anyone who may be feeling the same way I do.

If you would choose a favorite line from the song, what would it be and why?

Sometimes we take a slower pace, to give us time to rearrange.

It feels like our society is moving very fast, and if you can't keep up, you'll fall behind. To me, keeping up with that pace isn’t always necessary. Sometimes we need to take a step back and slow down to recalibrate and rearrange our thoughts, so we come back stronger. People need to know that it’s okay to slow down sometimes.

For you, what's the best thing about being a musician?

I get to share my stories through my music! It's very heartwarming when someone tells me that my music helped them through a tough time. As a listener, I've been encouraged by other musicians' music, so now, as a musician myself, it's my way of giving back.

Who are your biggest idols in the music industry? How do they inspire your own music?

I think it depends on the season I'm in. Recently, I've been into music by wave to earth, Sunset Rollercoaster, and some Taiwanese indie bands. However, my "mainstays" are Justin Bieber, Jay Chou, Li Ronghao, Wang Leehom, and Crush.

If you could collaborate with another artist, who would it be and why?

I’d be very keen to work with Crush! I’m a huge fan of his work; he has a great mix of R&B and ballads, which is the direction I’m heading towards as well.

What's your message for your listeners?

I hope through "endless shine," my listeners can find the encouragement to prioritize their mental wellness. In Singapore, the pressures of societal norms and the constant comparisons on social media can take a toll on our mental health. It's important to recognize these struggles and seek support when needed.

What's next for Sherman Zhuo? Any new music, collabs, or gigs we can look forward to?

My upcoming EP release is the biggest thing to look forward to! Previously, I’ve been releasing singles at a comfortable pace, but now I’d like to change that by dropping more songs, leading up to an EP. Since I’m working with Cross Ratio and Warner Music on this, it’s going to be an exciting project for me, and I hope my music can reach more people!

This interview has been edited for length and clarity. To learn more about Sherman Zhuo, follow him on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, and stream his music on YouTube and Spotify.

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Singapore/ Vibe/ Pop Culture

Outdoor, Indoor, and More: 5 Theatres and Cinemas to Visit in Singapore

Instagram Films at the Fort Photo by Instagram/Films at the Fort

Watching movies at home may be convenient, but nothing beats the feeling of seeing a film in a theatre. The shared reactions of the audience add a special touch to the cinema experience. In Singapore, many cinemas not only offer excellent movie projection and warm service, but they also go the extra mile to make every film enthusiast’s visit unforgettable.

Think of bed-like seats in theatres, outdoor screenings, or even a massive projection at an airport. Sounds exciting? If you’re looking to elevate your movie-watching experience, check out the cinemas below.

Glenfiddich Films at the Fort

Fancy watching a film outdoors? Glenfiddich Films at the Fort is your best bet. Held every year within Fort Canning Park, this open-air cinema event is popular for its outdoor screenings that showcase both classic and new movies, catering to families and groups of friends. Expect to meet like-minded individuals who share the same passion for films as you while savoring delectable picnic snacks and drinks. The movie lineup and official program for this year’s event haven’t been announced yet, but you can already sign up through the mailing list to get first dibs on announcements.

Location: Glenfiddich Films at the Fort, Fort Canning Park, Singapore

ST3PS

Website/Changi Airport

Whether you’re flying out of the country soon or just want to experience watching a movie at an airport, ST3PS is a must-visit. Located at Terminal 3 of Changi Airport, this movie-watching spot features a humongous LED screen that shows a variety of exciting content, such as kids’ movies, football matches, live broadcast events, and more. It’s the perfect spot to kill time while waiting for your flight or for a loved one you are picking up. The best part? There are food stalls in the area, so you won’t have to worry if you get hungry.

Location: ST3PS, Terminal 3 Basement 2, Singapore 819663

The Sundowner Nature Experience Centre

Facebook/The Sundowner
Facebook/The Sundowner

If you haven’t experienced a rooftop movie screening yet, head over to The Sundowner Nature Experience Centre. This cinema house features a nature-themed rooftop that has a huge projector that is perfect for families and groups of friends. This is the best place to catch a movie if you’re looking for an intimate spot to bond with your loved ones. Booking for two people costs S$350, while the rate for three to eight people is S$350 plus an additional S$80 per person for each person beyond the first two. For nine persons and more, the cost is S$350 plus an additional S$70 per person for each guest beyond the first two. For more information, contact [email protected]. Location: The Sundowner Nature Experience Centre, 705A East Coast Road, Singapore 459062

Cathay Cineplexes

Sure, bed-like seating is not a new concept as it’s becoming common around the world. However, Cathay Cineplexes stand out with its wave-shaped bed seating. It might look funny at first, but it’s actually a comfy way to catch a movie in a theatre with cold air conditioning and a surround sound system. The Wave Seats are available to book for S$40 every Monday to Thursday and S$45 from Friday to Sunday, for two people, popcorn included. For more information, contact Cathay Cineplexes through this link. Location: Cathay Cineplexes, 1002 Jalan Bukit Merah No 07-08 Singapore, 159456 Singapore

4D Cinema Experience at Madame Tussauds Singapore

Website/Madame Tussauds
Website/Madame Tussauds

Who said Madame Tussauds Singapore is only a place to view statues of popular personalities? Well, it’s also a place to catch Marvel movies in 4D. That means you won’t only get to view the film in vivid colors and great sound, but you’ll also experience features like motion seats, wind, water, scents, and other sensory effects that make you feel like you’re part of the action. Tickets can be bought through this link. For the latest updates, reach out to Madame Tussauds Singapore at [email protected].

Location: Madame Tussauds Singapore, 40 Imbiah Rd, Sentosa, Singapore 099700

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