Singapore doesn’t have one but we are competitive in swimming, badminton and shooting.

The traditional dress of Singapore is the traditional attire of the four ethnic groups. However, foreigners often associate the Singapore Airlines (our national airline) uniform as the dress of Singapore. At times, you will see our Ministers wearing shirts with orchid prints.

The Vanda Miss Joaquim is Singapore’s national flower, and the term ‘Vanda’ was adopted from the genus which the flower belongs to.

Welcome to Singapore, a vibrant, cosmopolitan city-state at the heart of Asia! As you consider joining the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, let me share a glimpse into daily life here and what makes Singapore such a unique place to live and study.

Singapore’s weather is typically warm and humid all year round, with brief tropical showers. Students usually dress casually and comfortably: T-shirts, shorts, jeans, and slippers are common on campus. When attending classes or events that call for smart casual attire, you’ll see shirts, summer dresses, or chinos paired with covered shoes. One tip: always carry a light jacket or sweater! While it’s hot outside, lecture theatres, shopping malls, and public transport are often air-conditioned and can feel surprisingly chilly.

It’s common to see students and professionals alike carrying compact umbrellas, useful for both sudden rain showers and shielding yourself from the midday sun. But don’t worry if you forget yours; Singapore is famous for its extensive network of sheltered walkways, so you can usually get from the MRT (subway) to your destination without getting drenched.

Eating out is a big part of daily life. From hawker centres to trendy cafés, you’ll find a range of options to fit any budget. A unique local habit you’ll notice is the use of tissue packets or umbrellas to "chope" (reserve) seats while people queue for food. Don’t be surprised to see tables marked this way, it’s a uniquely Singaporean practice!

Singapore is at the forefront of digital innovation, and you’ll see this reflected in everyday life. Many Singaporeans, students included are almost always on their mobile devices, whether for social media, navigating campus, or catching up on the latest news. It’s all part of a hyper-connected society.

Living in Singapore as an LKYSPP student means immersing yourself in a diverse, dynamic environment. If you have more questions about student life or need advice on settling in, our team is always here to help.

We look forward to welcoming you to our community!