5 reasons why Singapore is considered one of the safest cities in the world

Among the many reasons why Singapore has become an increasingly popular holiday destination, its reputation as one of the safest cities in the world is a huge draw factor.

Since the release of The Economist’s Safe Cities Index in 2015, the country has been consistently ranked within the top 3 safest cities in the world. 

You can explore the city’s vibrant, bustling streets in the day, and feel perfectly safe when heading out for late-night get-togethers, or immerse yourself in the country’s nightlife well past midnight.

You may even catch people ‘reserving’ eating spaces at crowded dining areas by placing their mobile phones, laptops, or even credit cards on tables before strolling off to purchase their meals – fully confident that no one will walk off with their valuables.

And they’ll most likely return to their tables with their belongings untouched.

So, what makes this country so safe, where its residents are able to walk around peacefully at night? Read on to find out.

1) Strict laws and regulations

While Singapore is well-known to be a really safe city, its also famous for its strict enforcement of laws and stringent penalties.

Get caught littering in Singapore and risk a fine of up to S$2,000 for first-term offenders. Repeat offenders risk fines of up to S$10,000. Spitting, jaywalking and consuming food on public transportation can also burn a huge hole in your pocket. 

And of course, more serious crimes have harsher punishments.

In addition, you can be sure that the authorities will enforce these laws, with the almost non-existent corruption within the Singapore legal and judicial system.

The city’s commitment to maintaining law and order thus deters crimes and potential wrongdoers, creating an environment where residents and foreigners alike can feel secure.

Moreover, a general sense of respect for the law is instilled among residents and visitors alike.

2) Efficient policing and surveillance 

Another reason for the country’s safe reputation is its robust police presence. Singapore’s local law enforcement is widely known for its effectiveness and efficiency.

Despite the low crime rate, law enforcement officers conduct regular patrols, especially in crowded spaces. On weekends, you’re likely to find armed officers patrolling the train stations within the shopping districts in Singapore, and even at tourist destinations. 

Maintaining a visible presence not only deters wrongdoers in Singapore, but also potential acts of terrorism. The city is on constant alert for anything that may threaten its security and safety.

The government has also invested resources to improve its law enforcement and emergency response services, which are primed to spring to action when the need arises.

There’s a police station within each neighborhood, providing the community with a sense of security. Here, the police strive to build relationships with the residents based on trust and respect, fostering confidence among the residents in the local police force. 

Bolstering the nation’s security is an advanced network of surveillance technologies.

Step outside of your door and you’ll find CCTV cameras in lifts, corridors, parking lots, public transport, malls – the list goes on.

Nearly every corner of public space has a camera installed to track the movements of potential wrongdoers. 

3) Low crime rate

The resulting combination of the above factors is a country with one of the lowest crime rates in the world. Violent crime is almost non-existent and petty theft, mugging or pickpocketing are few and far between.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that the city-state is completely free of these – like any country you travel to, it’s always important to be alert to your surroundings.

However, the country’s reputation precedes itself. According to the Global Peace Index in 2022, Singapore is ranked the 9th most peaceful country in the world and is positioned as the second most peaceful nation within Asia Pacific for the third year running.

But apart from policing, the country also places a strong emphasis on education.

4) Strong civic-mindedness

From young, the Singapore education system focuses on character building by teaching students ethics, values, and civic-mindedness. This inculcates a sense of moral responsibility among residents to do their part in upholding the peace and security of the country. 

Singaporeans tend to also respect the country’s laws and regulations, and will not generally flout these rules. 

These contribute to the nurturing of a safer society built on mutual respect and consideration, where as much as possible, individuals will respond or intervene when someone is in need.

Here, both the people and law enforcement work together to ensure that the country remains safe.

People who reside or choose to visit will thus have peace of mind when exploring, giving them more time to take in the cultural sights and sounds of the Lion City. 

5) Well-maintained infrastructure

We definitely cannot forgo mention of the country’s modern architecture that’s meticulously maintained. 

Singapore has an efficient system of maintaining its public spaces such as parks, malls, and areas that are frequently congested with people. 

The streets are also well-lit at night, with constant illumination until the sun rises. The orderly management of these spaces subtly discourages disorderly behavior, notably due also to enhanced visibility at night.

This helps to deter criminal activity as it reduces space for criminals to hide – although the country is already pretty small. Which also makes it that much easier to maintain. 

Final thoughts

Despite everything that has been said, crimes do still occur within the city-state. As with everywhere else, watch out for your belongings in crowded spaces and avoid walking alone through quiet streets.

It’s always better to err on the side of caution than regret when trouble comes!

Nonetheless, Singapore is a treasure trove of unique experiences where one can immerse themselves in a blend of tradition and modernity.

Explore different cultures in this multi-religious and multicultural city by eating your way through different parts of Singapore, visiting places of interest and speaking to the locals – all with a peace of mind. 

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Tina Fey

I've ridden the rails, gone off track and lost my train of thought. I'm writing for Ideapod to try and find it again. Hope you enjoy the journey with me.

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