There are many unspoken rules of etiquette in Singapore. There are three main cultures all living together in the country, the Chinese, the Malay, and the ethnic Indians. Each have their different forms of etiquette, and for many traveling for pleasure or for business and staying in the five star Singapore hotels, these rules can be a bit confusing. It is of importance however to understand these different customs as to avoid offense. This applies to the giving of gifts, for what one is not intending to cause when giving a gift, is offense.

When giving a gift to a Chinese person, it is important to note that they may refuse the gift, as many as three or four times. This is just meant for them to show that they are not greedy, so keep offering. Some of the presents one may give, have symbolic meaning and will cause offense. Gifts such as knives or scissors indicate that one would wish to sever the friendship or the relationship. The color of the wrapping paper is important as the darker colors tend to signify death, or funerals. Colorful and elaborate wrappings are most polite and most appreciated. Storks, in the United States, are often related to babies. However, the Chinese associate storks with death, so never give a child a stork or use wrapping paper with the storks on it.

When invited to someones home for dinner, never bring flowers or treats. Flowers again, are considered to be given to those who are ill or dying, and to bring even a desert cake will imply to the host, that they are unable to provide you with hospitality. It is best to bring treats for the hosts children, fruit or cakes. This way the feeling of giving is there however, there will be no offense taken. These are tips to provide one with the knowledge of the simple act of giving and receiving gifts to the Chinese locals in Singapore.