Exploring the Reputation of Singaporean Drivers: Good or Bad?

Singapore is a fascinating place to explore the dynamics of human behavior, especially when it manifests in the realm of driving. For any undergraduate, conducting a final year thesis on psychopathy and its causes could find a perfect subject in the driving culture of this Southeast Asian city-state. The unique combination of strict traffic laws, aggressive competition for parking spaces, and the financial burden of acquiring a license plate (COE) creates a breed of drivers that are both commendable and at times, problematic.

Traffic Fines: A Deterrent for All

For anyone born in Singapore, the phrase 'traffic fines' is far from just words on a list. They evoke fear and can turn the most confrontational and macho driver into a meticulous and disciplined individual. The prospect of fines serves as a strong deterrent and ensures that drivers remain vigilant about their behavior on the road.

The Struggle with COE

'COE' is a term dreaded by many Singaporeans who need cars. The rapidly rising cost of COE (Congestion Allowance) reaching over SGD 100,000 has made it a massively lucrative business area, often overseen by financial wizards in the SGX (Singapore Exchange).

Strict Traffic Laws and Road Rage

Despite the presence of road rage in Singapore, the unwritten law that whoever initiates a fight or aggression gets penalized fuels a unique form of self-regulation. This is evident in incidents where taxi drivers challenge Ferrari drivers to fistfights, defying conventional expectations of who would be the faster or more assertive. The underlying principle is that one must not be the first to engage in physical altercation, as it carries legal consequences.

Choiping Culture: First Come, First Serve

The concept of 'choiping' is another aspect that highlights the cultural nuances of Singaporean driving. This refers to the practice of securing parking spaces by arriving early or aggressively claiming spots. While some view this as a direct manifestation of 'first-come-first-served' ethics, others see it as a form of dominance. The story of a BMW driver who was narrowly saved from a reversing car by a quick-thinking grandma who recognized the urgent need to vacate a spot, underscores the tense atmosphere surrounding parking in Singapore.

Queueing: A Test of Patience and Anger Management

Queueing is more than just a social norm in Singapore; it can be a matter of life and death. Drivers often engage in intense displays of frustration during traffic jams, especially on major highways like the causeway to Malaysia. These events turn common practices into dramatic and sometimes violent conflicts. The account of a cartoonishly tattooed Yakuza-looking driver who caused a commotion and managed it off by a tough lady warrior from a comic book, illustrates the dual nature of this roadside behavior.

Conclusion

The reputation of Singaporean drivers is a complex and multifaceted one. While they are often hailed for their discipline and adherence to strict traffic laws, they can also be seen as aggressive and confrontational. The unique combination of societal norms, economic pressures, and legal framework shapes the way these drivers behave on the roads. Understanding these dynamics provides valuable insights into the social and cultural fabric of Singapore itself.