As Singaporeans, we were taught to stay well within the confines of the law, and for good reason. Singapore is widely regarded as one of the safest countries in the world, and that’s because potential lawbreakers are deterred from a life of crime by how severe the penalties can be when caught.

But that is not to say that the country’s firm stance on some of its statutes is completely unchanging, as certain policies have invited the government to go back to the drawing board to keep up with the ever-shifting societal norms. Here are just a couple that have come a long, long way.

1. Sale of pig blood

Banned in: 1999

A bowl of curdled pig blood soup in Batam.
Image credit: Bo Jango via Facebook

Foodies who frequent Malaysia, you’ve most probably heard of the news by now. A delicacy that was once only available across the border and beyond, the sale of pig blood has been recently approved by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA), much to the joy of fans of the gelatinous, tofu-like dish.

Image credit: Singapore Food Agency

In 1999, in order to curb the spread of the Nipah virus, local slaughter houses were prohibited from selling pig blood, as the blood could easily harbour the virus and other foodbourne pathogens if not processed properly. Fast-forward to 2018 – food production and import systems had improved significantly, so the SFA then took another stab at establishing strict requirements to allow the import and sale of pig blood products.

Image credit: CP Foods

That brings us to today, when the SFA just announced – on April Fool’s might I add – the approval of the import of heat-treated pig blood products from an accredited slaughterhouse in Thailand. As such, in a month or 2, food manufacturer CP Foods will reintroduce the Singapore populace to pasteurised pig blood curd; only time will tell if it’ll be a hit with the folks of today.

2. Cats being allowed to be kept as pets in HDB flats

Banned in: 1989

In case you didn’t know, Singapore has quite a number of peculiar pet ownership rules that warrant a hefty fine when broken. For the longest time, cats were surprisingly not allowed to be kept as pets in HDB flats, but this rule, which was formalised by the Housing & Development Board (HDB) in 1989, was not strictly enforced.

Image credit: Luni Singapore

After all, how could you bear to separate your neighbour from their furry friends? Well, the rule was put into place as the government deemed cats to be difficult to contain within flats, and when allowed to roam willy-nilly, they leave their shed fur everywhere, defecate and pee indiscriminately, and make caterwauling sounds in the dead of night that could disturb residents.

By the early 2020s, due to the significant increase in pet ownership and strong public support for allowing cats in HDB flats in Singapore, the ban was finally lifted on 1st September 2024.

Image credit: @themaingoons via Instagram

As we speak, our beloved felines aren’t fugitives anymore; HDB home owners are able to keep up to 2 cats per flat, and they’ll have to get them microchipped and licensed to keep owners accountable for their pets. You’ll have to cat-proof your apartment too, by installing mesh or grilles on windows to prevent them from falling. If you’re planning to welcome a furbaby into your family, our first-time cat owner guide will cover all these and then some.

3. Same sex-relations between men

Banned in: 1938

Another recent change in legislature is the repeal of Section 377A of Singapore’s penal code back in 2022. For those who don’t know, it was implemented in 1938 when Singapore was still a British colony, and criminalised acts of “gross indecency” between men, both in public spaces or in private.

Held annually at Hong Lim Park, Pink Dot SG is the biggest LBGTQ+ rights campaign in Singapore.
Image credit: Getty Images

Those found guilty could face imprisonment of up to 2 years. Despite being rarely enforced, it brought about a sense of legal vulnerability for members of the LGBTQ+ community in Singapore. Following years of debate, activism, and lobbying, Section 377A was finally repealed in August 2022, marking a huge win for the local LGBTQ+ community.

Although same-sex marriage is still not recognised in the country, consensual sex between men was finally was fully decriminalised after 80-odd years. This sparked a symbolic change regarding the views surrounding the LGBTQ+ community, by reducing stigma towards its members.

4. Males leaving their hair too long

Banned in: ~1970s

Just take a stroll down Haji Lane today, and every other dude there is sporting either a centre part that droops across the face or a nape-hugging mullet. But, to the chagrin of the Yo-Chi and Molly Tea-loving young’ins, these faddy hairstyles were very much taboo during the late 1960s to 1970s in Singapore.

Image credit: National Library SIngapore

Our then Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew believed the growing hippie subculture that embraced flagrant drug use and anti-establishment values among the youth had to be nipped at its bud, starting with our locks.

Image credit: National Archive of Singapore

For instance, schools around the country forced students to have their long hair cut on the spot, and civil servants were even fined $200 for simply sporting an overgrown do. Posters were also put up at community centres and government offices, stating that “males with long hair will be attended to last”.

A barbershop near the Woodlands Checkpoint that saw healthy business during the 1970s.
Image credit: National Archive of Singapore

Over at Changi Airport and the Woodlands Checkpoint, those wishing to enter Singapore were also subject to similar checks, and it was not uncommon for foreigners to be denied entry into the country. In particular, global superstars with shows scheduled in Singapore, like the Bee Gees and Led Zeppelin, were forced to cancel gigs as they refused to comply with these rules.

Then the 1980s rolled around, and soon folks realised it truly wasn’t that deep. Operation Snip Snip – yes, that was its official name – began winding down around this period, and the government soon shifted its focus to the nation’s economic growth rather than what was growing atop our noggins.

5. Chewing gum

Banned in: 1992

Image credit: Canva

Pretty much the example that folks outside of Singapore use when describing how “draconian” the laws can get here, chewing gum has indeed been banned in Singapore since 1992. However, a nugget of detail that many people seem to conveniently omit is that the ban only extends to the import, sale, and manufacture of chewing gum.

We’ve got litterbugs to thank for this, because from the 1970s to the 1990s, those who were chewing away couldn’t be bothered to look for trash cans to dispose of their gum. Instead, they stuck their gooey debris on public property such as lift buttons, mailboxes, and cinema seats, but it was their tendency to plaster them on MRT train doors that proved to be the final straw.

Image credit: Wikimedia Commons

This caused the train doors to malfunction, leading to MRT service disruptions. Coupled with the fact that the HDB reportedly spent $150,000 annually to clean up chewing gum-related messes, this led to the aforementioned ban, which is still in effect today.

But, you won’t quite trigger any police sirens by popping a piece of chewing gum into your mouth, as those returning from holiday can bring small amounts of gum for personal use back to Singapore. Moreover, in 2004, therapeutic gum such as nicotine or dental gum can be sold, but only by doctors and registered pharmacists, so the ban can be considered partially lifted.

6. Video game arcades & video games

Banned in: ~early 1980s to early 1990s

Being a gamer in Singapore was tough; not because video games or consoles were absurdly priced, but because some of the most popular titles were outright banned. Or in video game arcades’ case, they were even ordered by the government to shutter.

Image credit: r/AdSpecialist6598 via Reddit

Back in 1983, arcade operators were forced to cease operations by the Ministry of Culture, as there was a rising trend amongst students to skip school to hit the arcades, or worse, steal money to fund their trips there. The ban was then relaxed during the 1990s, but soon enough, gamers were met with a new hurdle: video game censorship.

Image credit: John Ng via Facebook

At this point in time, those who wanted to get their gaming fix preferred to hit up LAN shops instead of the arcades. So that was where the Board of Film Censors decided to raid to seize copies of titles that displayed excessive violence, nudity, or even the slightest hint of LGBTQ+ themes, such as Mortal Kombat 3, Doom, Carmageddon, and Half-Life.

Thankfully, we don’t have to worry about Special Forces breaching our homes whenever we load up a game suited for a more mature audience today. In the modern day and age, the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) has moved away from game censorship in favour of a new classification system.

Much like how films have ratings such as PG13 and NC16, the exact same ratings go for video games, from General to M18. As such, we’re now able to enjoy games of all kinds, and at the same time, parents can make an informed decision whether a game is suitable for their child or not.

7. Skateboarding in public spaces

Banned in: 1978

Image credit: Erik Tan via Facebook

Kids who’d rather spend their free time outdoors instead of mashing away at the keyboard also ran into a few hiccups of their own. Particularly, the late 1970s weren’t too kind on skateboarding enthusiasts in Singapore, as the act of skateboarding in public spaces was heavily restricted.

Although not officially illegal, it was around 1978 that the authorities really started to clamp down on skateboarders who were whizzing down the streets of Singapore. It was restricted in areas like schools, MRT stations, and busy pedestrian areas, and those made sense, as popping an ollie near crowds could pose a safety hazard to passers-by.

If skateboarders were caught being a public nuisance, offenders can be jailed for up to 6 months, fined $1,000, or both.
Image credit: Alamy

However, signs prohibiting skateboarding were soon put up in spots such as HDB void decks and even parks, as there were concerns of causing damage to public infrastructure when performing tricks on benches, railings, and ledges. So, skateboarders had to sneakily practice their kickflips at secluded spots, like the underutilised roller skating rink in Fort Canning Park.

Image credit: S W Tan Erik via Facebook

But the government then realised that restrictions alone were not feasible, and decided to instead build skate parks where skateboarders could shred in without endangering themselves and others. In May of 1990, the very first one was opened at Petain Road, the Rock n Roll Skate park. Others soon followed, and the sport lives on till this day, albeit not as popular as it once was.

Surprising things in SG that were once banned but are allowed today

The laws in Singapore may be strict and stringent, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t subject to change when the times call for it. Who knows, give it a bit, and we just might be able to buy a pack of gum on Singapore soil, or set off our own firecrackers during festive celebrations again.

For more interesting reads about life in Singapore:

• Iconic McDonald’s outlets that have closed down
• Everyday things that show how safe Singapore is
• Dying trades in SG & where to find them

Cover image adapted from: r/AdSpecialist6598 via Reddit, National Archive of Singapore

The post 7 Things That Were Once Banned Or Restricted In Singapore But Are Now Legal appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

Of course, the Berlin Wall is in Berlin, but if you didn’t know, there’s no need to travel to Germany to experience history. That’s right, we’ve got pieces of the Berlin Wall right here in SG, specifically at the National University of Singapore (NUS). What’s more, this is not the first time the Berlin Wall has been erected in Singapore.

What is the Berlin Wall?

Berlin Wall, Niederkirchnerstraße, 1988.
Image credit: Wikimedia Commons

The Berlin Wall was constructed in 1961 by the German Democratic Republic (GDR) government as a physical barrier that divided East and West Berlin. It was secured with barbed wire and mines to prevent border crossings to the democratic West Berlin. The speed at which it went up meant that families and friends were separated overnight, with many reuniting only after the wall was torn down in November 1989.

Image credit: Stiftung Berliner Mauer, Detlef Gallinge

When that moment came, citizens actually chipped away at the wall with their own hands, using a variety of tools to hack away at the concrete. Today, some pieces of the wall remain in Berlin, but many can be found in more than 100 memorials all around the world, including the Vatican City, South Korea, and much closer to home, Singapore.

Berlin Wall in NUS that’s still there for viewing

Unveiling of the Berlin Wall in NUS in 2016.
Image credit: Vivian Balakrishnan via Facebook

2 pieces of the Berlin Wall were unveiled on 18th October 2016 at the Tembusu College in NUS University Town. With each fragment of the Berlin Wall weighing approximately 4 tonnes, the 3.6m tall structures are a sight to behold.

Image adapted from: Svitlana Volochai via Google Maps

However, these aren’t just cool photo ops for history buffs. The wall segments are also representative of Singapore’s ties with Germany. They were gifted by Mr Elmar Prost and his company, Lagerhaus KW GmbH, to commemorate 50 years of diplomatic relations between the 2 countries. The segments have been on loan to NUS since and are available to view for free.

You can find them directly opposite the Tembusu College drop-off point. Be prepared for a climb though, as the segments are located at the top of a slope.

There used to be the Berlin Wall at Bedok Reservoir Park too

Image credit: choo chin nian via flickr

Some of you might be thinking that these segments at NUS aren’t the first to grace our shores. And you’re right. Back in the day, there were 4 panels from the actual Berlin Wall at Bedok Reservoir Park.

To commemorate the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall, the panels were loaned to Singapore by Robert and Meili Hefner and unveiled to the public on 10th January 2010. The display was located in the sculpture garden area of the park and housed in a 1,400sqm glass enclosure in the eastern part of Bedok Reservoir Park.

What made these panels extra interesting was the artwork on them. German artist Dennis Khan, who wanted to reflect a divided Germany under capitalism and communism during the Cold War, painted graffiti over the surfaces. The side that once faced West Berlin was splashed with bright colours, including murals depicting a bright and joyful king to represent freedom. On the other end, a colourless, blindfolded king is painted to reflect oblivion to the wishes of his people. The other side of the wall, which used to face East Berlin, was left bare.

The panels were exhibited in the park for 3 years before being returned to the couple in April 2013.

Pieces of the Berlin Wall hidden within NUS

Image credit: National University of Singapore

The Berlin Wall is more than just concrete; it is a historical relic that once symbolised the division of a nation. View the only 2 panels currently in Singapore at the National University of Singapore, and maybe take a moment to reflect on how far things have come since.

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More history-related articles:

• Old Swiss Cottage Secondary School
• People’s Park Food Centre
• Old SIA Sports Complex

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The post You Can See Pieces Of The Berlin Wall In Singapore, Without Hopping On A Flight To Germany appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

We’ve all seen that perfectly timed frame from NDP 2025 – the guy proudly holding up his “I want to” placard, wishing for a reliable and affordable public transport system. Honestly, same.

Ever since that huge East-West MRT disruption in 2024, MRT breakdowns have almost become a regular notification on our phones. So, here’s a throwback as we break down Singapore’s MRT breakdowns over the recent years, and relive some of the more chaotic times together.

Major MRT breakdowns in Singapore over the years 

Our MRT system has come a long way since its launch in 1987, but it’s had its fair share of breakdowns over the years, with some being more major than others. Here’s a look back at some of the most significant MRT breakdowns.

1999

Train derails on the North-South Line 

Image credit: sweet-lil-thang via Reddit

The year was 1999, and a lone train was headed for the Bishan depot on 13th April. At around 10am, the train was derailed between Yio Chu Kang and Ang Mo Kio MRT stations, causing train service on the North-South Line (NSL) to be disrupted for 7 hours.

Later, it was discovered that the incident was due to a human error by the Ang Mo Kio station master, who was tasked to manually reset the tracks at 2 points, but missed out on 1.

2006

7-hour MRT disruption on the North-East Line 

Thanks to 2 cables that came loose, a departing train from Outram Park station stalled right after leaving the platform. 4 stations had to be shut down, and there was a 7-hour MRT disruption on the North-East Line (NEL).

The 100 or so passengers onboard were safe, but they had to form their own human choo-choo line as they walked through a 200m tunnel stretch back to Outram Park MRT station.

2011

Train disruptions that resulted in smashed windows

Image credit: please_-_no via Reddit

December 2011 was when SMRT basically siked us with their back-to-back train disruptions on the NSL. Due to maintenance lapses, trains came to a halt in the evening of 15th December. Some commuters even had to smash the windows just to get some air in since the air conditioning wasn’t working.

As if that wasn’t enough, 2 days later came the encore: a disruption halted train services across 12 stations for 7 hours, affecting 94,000 commuters. Back then, the incident was seen as one of the worst MRT breakdowns in Singapore… if only they knew.

2012

10-hour disruption on the North-East Line

On 15th March 2012, about 90,000 commuters had a very valid excuse for being late to work. A pair of steel cables snapped right before the morning train service on the NEL began. It didn’t help that maintenance work took longer than expected, leading to a whopping 10-hour disruption. The trains were only up and running again at 4.35pm – by then, most people’s workday was basically over.

2015

Breakdowns on both the North-South & East-West Lines 

As if Tuesday blues couldn’t get any worse, 413,000 commuters had a late dinner on 7th July 2015 when train services for both the NSL and East-West Line (EWL) came to a screeching halt for more than 2 hours. The disruption was caused by an insulator that had accumulated too many salt deposits.

2017

Flooded tracks on the North-South Line 

Image credit: SCDF 

2017 was really not SMRT’s year. In October, heavy storms and a faulty maintenance pump turned the tunnels between Bishan and Braddell into their own Spirited Away scene, with floodwaters submerging the tracks and disrupting service from Ang Mo Kio to Newton MRT stations till the next day.

Just a month later, in November, a train collision on the EWL injured nearly 40 people and disrupted train services between Boon Lay and Tuas Link. 2017 went down as one of the MRT’s most suay years ever.

2024

Breakdown on the East-West Line, which lasted 6 days

Image credit: SMRT via Facebook 

Of course, we have to talk about the legendary EWL breakdown in September that lasted over 6 days. This one’s basically the boss battle of all MRT breakdowns, and is still considered one of the biggest breakdowns in our MRT’s history.

I remember waking up to my phone blowing up and thanking my lucky stars for NUS’s well-timed study week. Not so lucky were my NTU friends who had to fight the war to get to Boon Lay. It definitely didn’t help that the disruption happened during PSLE week.

The disruption’s cause was eventually credited to a train’s dislodged axle box that had degraded grease, which damaged the track and equipment.

A timeline of significant MRT breakdowns in 2025

But if you want to talk about recent MRT breakdowns, you don’t have to look too far with a slate of back-to-back MRT disruptions in 2025 alone.

Feb 2025

3 breakdowns in 5 days

Image credit: SMRT via Facebook 

February 2025 was the season of MRT breakdowns. Within the span of 5 days, we had 3 breakdowns on the NSL, NEL and Circle Line (CCL) – that has to be some kind of record.

The first happened on 7th February and was caused by an engineering vehicle breakdown at a railway crossing in Bishan Depot, which affected NSL trains. The second incident occurred on 10th February when a signalling fault near Buangkok station caused trains on the NEL to travel more slowly.

We probably all let out a collective groan when we got the news on 11th February announcing a signalling fault between Paya Lebar and Marymount. The power trip affected 17 trains, because why stop at 1? Rule of Three, MRT edition.

July 2025

2 breakdowns in a month

We had another series of breakdowns in July this year. The first was on 3rd July, where a signalling fault on the Thomson-East Coast Line at Orchard station halted train services across 4 stations for 2 hours.

This was followed by another disruption later in the month, where 2 power-related faults took out the entire Bukit Panjang LRT line.

August 2025

Train breakdowns on 3 different lines

Image credit: Must Share News 

Perhaps it was National Day jitters, but we had another 2 major disruptions leading up to the nation’s birthday.

The first was due to a faulty point machine near Jurong East MRT, which led to a halt on train services down the EWL stretch for 5 hours. The second was due to a critical power fault that put a pause on train services along 11 NEL stations, as well as the entire Sengkang-Punggol LRT loop.

But hey, at least some lucky Singaporeans got to experience walking down the MRT tunnel and striking one thing off their bucket list.

September 2025

5 train disruptions on MRT & LRT lines

Image credit: u/Waikuku3 via Reddit

If August was bad, September was the sequel nobody asked for. Within the first 2 days alone, commuters were hit twice: a CCL train fault on 1st September, followed by an NSL train fault the very next evening that delayed commuters across 5 stations between Woodlands and Yishun.

On 13th September, the entire Sengkang-Punggol LRT loop went down again during the morning peak hour, for the third time in just over a month. To round the chaotic month off, a train fault knocked out 6 EWL stations between Aljunied and Tanah Merah on 16th September, and a signalling fault took down the entire TEL the very next morning.

With back-to-back train disruptions and entire train lines down, September takes the cake for the month with the most train disruptions in 2025.

December 2025

Yet another track fault to end off the year, the EWL experienced a delay between Bugis and Bedok stations on the evening of 2nd December. A track point failure near Aljunied station added an extra 20 minutes to commuters’ travel time, and to make things worse, SMRT stayed silent on social media throughout the entire ordeal.

Some commuters were left scrambling to figure out which platform to board from at Paya Lebar, with some ending up on trains headed in the wrong direction. Not the most graceful way to end the already rough year for Singapore’s MRT lines.

Which MRT Line had the most breakdowns in 2025?

Image credit: Matthew Chia via Google Maps 

There’s a tie! EWL, CCl, and DTL-riding folks were the champs of enduring the most MRT breakdowns in 2025. But to be honest, it isn’t as bad as dealing with your entire line being shut down – our condolences, Sengkang-Punggol LRT and TEL liners.

However, even though it didn’t place on the podium, the NSL emerged as the most unreliable according to the 2025 LTA report, with 4 out of 5 MRT lines taking a dip in reliability in 2025 compared to 2024. Here’s hoping 2026 is a better year for everyone’s daily commute.

MRT breakdown terms you need to know

A little enlightenment so you don’t have to nod along pretending you get what “signalling fault” or “power trip” means every time a new MRT breakdown hits.

Signalling fault 

Image credit: SGTrains.com

We’ve seen this term generously peppered in every MRT breakdown article, but let’s be real, do you really know what a signalling fault is?

Signalling just means the train’s version of traffic lights. It’s what regulates train speeds and prevents collisions. A signalling fault would mean a malfunction of the traffic system. Given how important traffic signalling is for the trains, a small fault can be dangerous and usually causes train delays.

Track fault 

Image credit: @ltasg via Instagram 

A track fault is normally used as an umbrella term to refer to general track issues like track point faults and rail cracks.

Track point fault 

Image credit: SMRT via Facebook 

Track point faults are basically what caused those EWL delays in August 2025.

First, what’s a track point? It’s basically a movable rail that allows trains to change tracks. So a fault would mean a malfunction of the rail, and it usually has something to do with the point machine. More on that below.

Point machine 

SMRT engineering staff rectifying a faulty track point machine at Clementi MRT station.
Image credit: SMRT via Facebook 

The point machine controls the movement of railway switches and makes sure that they are correctly positioned. It weighs a whopping 90kg and can be found next to the track. Basically, the equipment pushes and pulls the movable rail to guide trains onto the right track.

It’s usually used when a train needs some downtime at the train depot, so the point machine switches the track to guide it off the main MRT tracks. In the case of a point machine breakdown, trains would have to switch to manual mode and travel more slowly for passenger safety.

How to prepare for & what to do during an MRT breakdown in Singapore

You can’t stop an MRT breakdown, but you can choose how to prepare for one – and more importantly, how to stay cool when it happens.

Join useful Telegram channels  

Screenshot from: @sgmrt via Telegram 

Instead of depending on “he said, she said” in your friend group chats, try looking to a more trusted source, namely SG MRT Updates. It’s a Telegram channel that keeps its subscribers updated in the event of a breakdown and provides alternative line suggestions.

Join @sgmrt on Telegram to stay in the know.

Save alternative travel routes 

In the likely event of me travelling to work after camping.
Screenshot from: Google Maps 

Just because the MRT lets you down doesn’t mean the rest of Singapore’s transport system has failed. In case the train decides to break down on you, having alternative bus routes on your phone can help you skip the MRT panic.

While it’s tempting to rely on Google Maps in the moment, the train crowd will definitely slow down your trusty Wireless@SGx. To be safe, screenshot your bus routes ahead of time so you’ll know where to go, connection or not.

Request for an official E-Travel Chit

Image adapted from: SMRT

If you find yourself caught in the middle of an MRT breakdown, you can request an e-Travel Chit from SMRT as official proof that your journey was disrupted due to a train delay.

When you’re within 100m of an SMRT station, fill in a simple form on SMRT’s e-Travel Chit website, and you can email the chit to a maximum of 3 recipients, perfect for looping in your boss or anyone who needs convincing that you weren’t just running late.

Trauma bond in the train carriage 

Screenshot from: CNA via YouTube

If you end up in one of those rabak MRT breakdowns where you’re stuck in the train for a long time, there’s no better time to trauma bond. Complain about the heat or debate which line is the most cursed, and you’ll unlock instant camaraderie.

To fewer MRT breakdowns, please 

I was in a train the other day when the carriage shook briefly as it left the station, and it was almost comical to watch commuters exchange the same glances of… could it be? At this point, MRT breakdowns are one of Singaporeans’ many inside jokes, and we groan every time we see our phones light up with another notification.

But it’s also proof that even with all our online rants, the MRT is still one of the things that brings us Singaporeans together.

Other MRT content:

• MRT hacks for kiasu commuters 
• Unfinished MRT plans in SG 
• Funny & unexpected stories behind MRT station names 

Cover image adapted from: Must Share News, please_-_no via Reddit
Last updated by Celine Wee on 30th March 2026.

The post MRT Breakdowns In Singapore: A Full Timeline & Tips For When It Happens appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

McDonald’s was undoubtedly a “third space” for many of us – a spot to hang out after school during our teenage years or grab a late-night supper, often for just around $5 or less. Many outlets, from those in town to the heartlands, quietly became a part of our routines and memories.

Sadly, some of these familiar McDonald’s locations have disappeared over the years. So here’s a look back at some iconic McDonald’s outlets in Singapore that have closed down, but still live on in our memories.

1. McDonald’s Tampines Mall

Longstanding neighbourhood fast food option

Image credit: Mervyn Phea via Google Maps

McDonald’s Tampines Mall first opened in November 1995, and would have run for over 30 years by the time it closed on 8th March 2026 – making it one of the longest surviving fast food chain outlets in the area.

Screenshot from: Google Maps

This outlet joined the other 3 McDonald’s outlets around Tampines: Tampines Bus Interchange for takeaways, Our Tampines Hub, and another within the neighbourhood. So if you ever ran out of things to do in the area, ending up at McDonald’s was almost inevitable; the Golden Arches were everywhere you turned.

Screenshot from: Reddit

Even so, the Tampines Mall branch remained especially popular among students and families. Many remember it as a regular post-school hangout or casual meeting point before heading home.

2. McDonald’s Raffles City

Quick lunch spot for office workers

Image credit: hytam2 via Flickr

Waking up early in the morning is one thing, but dragging yourself to town for work is another – unless you live nearby. That’s when McDonald’s Raffles City came in clutch, especially with their $5 breakfast McSaver meals to ease the morning crankiness.

Located in Raffles City above City Hall MRT, the outlet first opened in September 2009 and closed in February 2024. Often packed during lunch hours and weekends, it was known as a reliable, no-frills lunch spot for busy office workers in the heart of the city.

3. McDonald’s *SCAPE

Nostalgic youth hangout place

Image credit: Scape

Opened in 2010, McDonald’s *SCAPE quickly became a familiar hangout, especially since the area was known as a youth enclave – it drew in students, skateboarders, dance crews, and anyone looking for a late-night supper spot in town.

Screenshot from: Reddit

For many, this McDonald’s outlet was tied to after-school meetups and spontaneous gatherings that stretched into the night. It closed on 22nd February 2023, marking the end of an era for those who grew up frequenting the space.

Image credit: The Red Marker via Google Maps

The outlet later moved to Cineleisure just a few steps away, taking over the former KFC unit. Although the new space has been renovated to offer more open seating, longtime patrons still reminisce about the *SCAPE location.

4. McDonald’s Lucky Plaza

Convenient supper spot in the heart of Orchard Road

Image credit: James Haung via Google Maps

McDonald’s Lucky Plaza opened for business in the 1970s and operated for a whopping 34 years before closing on 14th January 2023. The outlet was stationed in the basement and also the entrance of the mall, so it was hard to miss, making it the go-to option for casual lunches or dinners for most who passed by.

McDonald’s Lucky Plaza celebrated 34 years of business before closing down.
Image credit: u/verylittlegravyagain via Reddit

Its long run also meant that generations passed through its doors, and its closure left an emptiness in many hearts – even along Orchard Road, where new F&B spots seem to pop up every other week.

5. McDonald’s Science Centre

Post-secondary school learning journey reward

Image adapted from: Bryan Tan & Emerine Loh via Facebook

For many of us, McDonald’s Science Centre is tied to some of our earliest childhood memories, right alongside the iconic Albert Einstein figure on the ropes. The outlet was a familiar routine of the typical “Science Centre trip”. After spending hours exploring exhibits, stopping by McDonald’s felt like a well-earned treat.

Alas, all good things come to an end – it opened in the 2000s and operated for about 20 years before closing on 22nd March 2020.

6. McDonald’s K.H. Kea Building

Hangout spot for the artsy kids

Image credit: Arcadia Dizon via Facebook

McDonald’s K.H. Kea Building opened in 1985 and closed in 2019 – it was nestled in the Bras Basah area near schools and arts institutions, so it was exactly where you’d expect students, creatives, and night owls to congregate.

Screenshot from: Reddit

This outlet was known for its central location and laid-back vibe, often a place to sit, chat, and pass the time between classes or rehearsals.

7. McDonald’s King Albert Park

Featured Hamburglar & Ronald McDonald

Image adapted from: The Long and Winding Road via Facebook

Opened in 1991 and closed in March 2014, McDonald’s King Albert Park was especially well-loved by residents in the west. It even had the OG Hamburglar statue outside, which became an icon in its own right, and Ronald McDonald flanking the McD’s logo.

Screenshot from: Reddit

A Redditor recalled that the King Albert Park outlet was extra special, calling it “homeground” for Robert Kwan, who was McDonald’s managing director back then – perhaps because he moved into a bungalow nearby.

There was a unique charm to the space that made it stand out from standard branches – something the newer Dunearn Road outlet couldn’t quite match.

8. McDonald’s Centrepoint

One of the OG outlets

Image credit: NAS Archives Online

If you’re a millennial or boomer reading this, the sight of McDonald’s Centrepoint might’ve tugged on your heartstrings a little. Although it’s considered one of the OGs, it unfortunately didn’t even make it past the 2000s.

Tucked within The Centrepoint along Orchard Road, this outlet was a hot spot for students and town-goers. At the time, it was just another familiar spot, but its disappearance later served as a reminder of how Orchard Road’s landscape is always changing.

9. McDonald’s Liat Towers

Singapore’s 1st McDonald’s outlet

Image adapted from: u/bryan6363 via Reddit

Most of us might not know this, but Singapore’s first-ever McDonald’s outlet opened at Liat Towers on Orchard Road in October 1979. The franchise was brought here by Robert Kwan, a former national water polo player who was inspired after visiting a McDonald’s in Las Vegas in 1975.

Screenshot from: u/bryan6363 via Reddit

Back then, even though a Hamburger only cost $0.95, a visit to McDonald’s felt like a special treat rather than an everyday meal. For many who grew up in that era, Liat Towers marked the beginning of fast food culture in Singapore, though it later closed in 1989.

Here’s a fun fact: on its opening day, the outlet set a world record for the highest volume of hamburgers served in a single day.

Bonus: McDonald’s Shaw Lido

Known for its unique outdoor seating

Image credit: Eleanor De Ocampo via Facebook

McDonald’s Shaw Lido was famous for its spacious layout and iconic outdoor seating area. With a more polished, cafe-like look compared to other outlets, it didn’t quite feel like your usual fast food joint, which was relatively rare among McD’s outlets here. It was especially popular with movie-goers grabbing a bite before or after a show.

Image credit: Joshua Tsu via Google Maps

Although it did not close entirely, the outlet underwent a major renovation in 2013 and lost its unique outdoor seating layout. While it still exists in a different form, many remember the original layout and atmosphere fondly.

These McDonald’s outlets were more than just a place to fill our tummies

As Singapore continues to redevelop and refresh its spaces, older McDonald’s outlets inevitably make way for new concepts and layouts. Even so, these former locations remain tied to personal milestones – from school excursions to late-night heart-to-heart conversations.

They may no longer be around, but for many, these McDonald’s outlets were part of growing up in Singapore, and will probably stay rent-free in our memories for a long, long time.

Take a walk down memory lane:

• Old Singapore hotels
• Nostalgic meet-up spots
• Abandoned mansions in Singapore

Cover image adapted from: The Long and Winding Road & Eleanor De Ocampo via Facebook

The post 9 Iconic McDonald’s Outlets In SG That Have Closed Down, From Heartland Locations To Orchard Road Classics appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

It’s that time of the year when we’re bombarded with all things red and gold, paired with gong xi gong xi tunes playing at every mall. Not that we’re complaining though, since Chinese New Year is a great reason to visit friends and family.

Before you don your cheongsams or changshans, take a minute to brush up on your CNY greetings and wishes. Then, familiarise yourself with these CNY traditions and dos and don’ts so you can wow your family members when you bai nian. You can thank us later.

Disclaimer: Some of these are CNY traditions and customs that originated many years ago, and may or may not be followed by people today.

1. Do: Learn the proper way to address each family member

Image credit: Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre

If you’ve outgrown the 一个风和日丽的早上 (one fine morning) phase, then simply addressing your relatives as “auntie” and “uncle” is a big no-no. You can do better than that. There are specific ways to address each family member in Mandarin – like how your dad’s older brother is called 伯父 (bo fu), and your mom’s brother is called 舅舅 (jiu jiu).

Different dialects also come into play here, with a different set of terms to memorise based on whether you’re Hokkien, Cantonese, Teochew, and so on. It might be a lot to remember at first, but once you’re fluent, your elders will definitely feel more respected. If you’re visiting with your siblings or partner, split the work and get them to learn some too so you can tag team. It’ll also help to keep the SINGAPO人 Family Tree guide on standby.

2. Do: Brush up on lohei phrases

We all know that yusheng is a colourful and refreshing medley of ingredients. But the art of having a hearty and meaningful lohei session may have faded over generations. Similar to learning CNY greetings and the terms to address your relatives with, knowing lohei phrases that target different age groups and demographics of well wishes will impress your entire fam.

We’re talking “步步高升” (bu bu gao sheng, rising step by step) for working adults who are climbing the career ladder, “甜甜蜜蜜” (tian tian mi mi, sweet and blissful) to bless couples’ romance levels, and “学业进步” (xue ye jin bu, improve in academics) for relatives who are still studying.

When in doubt, refer to the handy SINGAPO人 Yusheng 101 guide. Not only does it give you the lowdown on phrases to holler when tossing yusheng, it also explains the significance behind each auspicious ingredient, and the meaning of the phrases so you won’t catch no ball.

3. Do: Hand out red packets in order from oldest to youngest child

Image credit: Freepik

Hands up if you have a bunch of adorable nieces and nephews. Now, it’s time to hand out the angbaos to them. Whether you’re a new member of the married club or just a clueless adult, it’s worth noting that some families follow an order when giving out red packets.

It’s pretty straightforward: certain households bai nian to their elders in a chronological order, you can also give out the red packets in the same order, from the oldest to the youngest child. You don’t have to give an increasing or decreasing amount of money though – that’s up to you. But if you need some help, you can refer to our CNY angbao guide.

4. Do: Give red packets at the right time

Let’s get into the nitty gritty details of angbao giving. Some of us may wonder, “Is there a right time to give red packets?”. The simple answer is no, there isn’t a fixed timing to hand them out. There’s no hard rule for this. If everyone has arrived at the gathering and is waiting for the feasting to begin, you can start giving out red packets.

Some also prefer to give the angbaos right after they meet and greet their relatives – this works well if you’re a Forgetful Freddy and run the risk of forgetting to give out the red packets completely. Either way, just don’t leave your family hanging and angbao-less at the end of the party.

5. Do: Settle your debts before CNY

If you ever need a reason to get your mate to PayNow you their share of the bill from your last dinner that they’ve conveniently forgotten about, now’s the time to hound them. Unless they’d rather be cursed with poor financial standing in 2026, it’s good practice to settle outstanding debts before CNY.

Since the celebration is intrinsically tied to prosperity and wealth, it is believed that not balancing your books before the festivities kick off can result in a year riddled with financial woes. As such, try your best to pay off your credit card debts and bank loans to head into the new year with a peace of mind, with the added benefit of not accruing additional interest fees.

6. Don’t: Go visiting on the 3rd day of CNY

Image adapted from: Pexels

If your family is particularly huge, you may be used to CNY being an annual affair of Amazing Race-style house visits across the island. Introvert or not, this can prove rather draining on the ol’ social battery. Well, tradition comes in clutch in the form of Chi Gou Ri, or “Red Dog Day”, the name given to a CNY custom whereby the 3rd day of festivities is declared a day of rest.

The belief is that evil spirits roam around on CNY Day 3, so households ought to keep the doors shut in order to prevent misfortune from entering their sanctuary. This also means staying safely at home instead of venturing out, to minimise clashes with “dirty” forces.

7. Don’t: Host & give angbaos if you have a recently deceased relative

You can still meet your pals, just not in a CNY setting.

It’s never easy navigating the loss of a close relative. To properly mourn the recent passing of a family member, there are some things to note. For one, you should refrain from hosting celebrations or visiting other people’s houses during CNY. But rest assured that you can still have gatherings with your friends, just sans the CNY festivities.

You’re also not allowed to hand out red packets during this grieving period. However, you can still receive red packets should you be given any.

8. Don’t: Serve porridge on New Year’s Day

Image credit: Eatbook

Porridge is not just a go-to to nurse someone back to full HP when they’re ill, it’s also a nourishing and filling meal option even when you’re in good health. But if you’re whipping up some home-cooked dishes this CNY, make sure to leave porridge off the menu.

#TheMoreYouKnow: porridge is actually a symbol of poverty. So based on CNY traditions, eating it on New Year’s Day would set a bad tone for the entire year ahead in terms of wealth. For more tips on how to ward off bad luck and reap maximum huat, check out the SINGAPO人 Good Luck Guide.

9. Don’t: Mention inauspicious topics

CNY is a happy occasion; so it’s no doubt that we really want to focus on the good. As you’re catching up with everyone, avoid speaking about topics such as sickness, death, or ghosts.

Some believe that any mention of these kinds of subject matter is considered inauspicious. Regardless of your beliefs, it’s not pleasant to talk about such topics during a time of merriment. Instead, focus on the positive aspects of work, school, or life in general – so no tears will be shed during lohei.

10. Don’t: Wash or cut your hair on the first day of CNY

Those who can’t go a day without washing their hair in the shower, you might want to look away. Turns out, washing your luscious locks on the first day of CNY is a huge no-no.

That’s because the Chinese characters for “hair” and “prosper” sound similar, and so taking a showerhead to your mane on the first day of CNY is akin to washing your wealth down the drain for the next 365 days. That goes the same for getting a hair cut; you wouldn’t want to risk snipping away your fortune before you’ve even received your first red packet.

Bookmark these CNY traditions and dos & don’ts

Let these CNY dos and don’ts be your guiding light to impress your friends and relatives. For more in-depth reading on the origins of various CNY traditions and cultural beliefs, head over to the SINGAPO人 website for all things CNY. They even have an all-out guide based on the 15 days of CNY – it doesn’t get more comprehensive than that.

While you’re at it, plan a day out with your loved ones and visit the free exhibitions at Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre (SCCC). The SINGAPO人 exhibition on level 2 has various interactive elements, including a fun game where your knowledge of local kopi drinks will be put to the test.

This permanent exhibition is open from 2pm-8pm on Mondays, and 10am-8pm from Tuesdays to Sundays. No booking is required, so feel free to walk in anytime. There’s even free English and Mandarin guided tours every weekend if you’d like to make the most of your visit.

Image adapted from: @fernshares & @singaporeculturalcentre via Instagram

If you need a backdrop to flex your CNY fits, then head right up to SCCC’s Roof Garden. From now till 20th May 2026, it’s home to their “Finding Har马ny” CNY Art Installation, which sees various horse sculptures galloping across the garden. Most of them even light up beautifully at night, so consider swinging by when dusk falls.

Aside from the usual home visits, CNY is also a good opportunity to organise a jolly gathering with the fam. These exhibitions are suitable for all ages, including the little ones and your grandparents. And as you make your way to SCCC, feel free to watch the curated SINGAPO人 Festivals playlist which features entertaining CNY-themed songs and shows.

Check out how CNY is celebrated the SINGAPO人 way

This post was brought to you by Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre.
Cover image adapted from: Freepik
Last updated by Huiyuan You on 10th February 2026.

The post 10 Practical CNY Dos & Don’ts To Maximise Your Huat & Impress All Your Relatives appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

Throwing it back to when we were kids, most of us used to cheekily chant “ 新年快乐, 紅包拿來”. Fast forward to today and you’re probably the one on the other end of the angbao giving tradition.

For clueless folks out there struggling their way through the complexities of annual CNY traditions, we’ve got your back with this guide to angbao giving in Singapore. From how much to give to tips and taboos, below are some FAQs answered by fellow Singaporeans.

1. How much should I give in my angbaos?

The million-dollar question then comes down to how much should you give? Just as there’s no fixed answer to how much you should spend on a friend’s birthday present, there’s no standard angbao rate to abide by.

We’ve gathered Singaporeans of 3 different age groups to form a rough guide below, but do remember that this table is for reference only. How much you should consider giving also depends on your financial stability and relationship with the recipient.

If you need a number for that distant relative you’ve only ever seen once in your life or acquaintance you’ll likely never see again, the minimum most go with today is $6-$8 – although a neat $2 note is not uncommon as well.

As the “market rate” has been increasing with inflation, these numbers are also expected to go up in the future.

Pro-tip: Get a red packet organiser to sort different values of angbaos to give to different relatives and visitors.

2. Do I need new notes for angbao?

New notes are favoured when giving angbao during CNY because they represent a fresh start to welcome in good fortune and prosperity. However, the Monetary Authority of Singapore is encouraging everyone to use fit-for-giving notes (AKA fit notes), which are bills that look new enough to give away in angbaos. This is much more environmentally friendly, since producing new notes takes up energy enough to power 430 4-room HDB flats.

Alternatively, you could also send digital angbaos as well using PayNow, to eliminate the need for paper money altogether.

Where to get new and fit notes for CNY 2026?

Here’s where you can get new and/or fit notes for CNY 2026.

3. When do I need to give my first angbao?

Ah, the bittersweet transition from angbao-recipient to angbao-giver.

CNY: Pre-marriage VS. post-marriage
Image credit: TheSmartLocal

According to most Singaporeans, married couples should start giving red packets on the first CNY after their marriage; although according to some others, it should be the following CNY. When in doubt, take a page out of Gothel of Tangled’s book: “Mother knows best”. Your parents will be in the best position to give advice, with your family’s customs in mind.

For those who aren’t planning on getting married, you won’t be expected to give red packets. But if you do wish to give nonetheless, you can do so once you start working, or hit the typical “marriage” age of 30-35.

4. What are some of the unspoken traditions to follow?

Traditional events like Chinese New Year are chock-full of unspoken rules that us millennials might be unaware of. For a seamless angbao exchange, below are some of the things you need to know before your upcoming home visits:

• Good things come in pairs. Give an even number sum like $28, and if your family is traditional, avoid amounts such as $4 or $44, as the number four sounds similar to 死 (die) in Mandarin.
• Some Cantonese traditions also require you to give red packets in pairs – so 2 red packets for every recipient.
• Distribute angbaos in order of oldest to youngest recipient.
• Use crisp notes, rather than old and wrinkled ones for courtesy. Crisp notes can be withdrawn from dedicated ATMs or banks.

5. When should I avoid/stop giving an angbao?

When someone passes away, festive occasions like Chinese New Year are dialled down or skipped entirely as a show of respect for the deceased – this means no boisterous reunion dinners, cheery home visits, and of course, no angbao exchanges.  The mourning period typically lasts 100 days, although some choose to do it for about a year or more.

Another reason why some stop giving angbaos is loss of income, such as in the case of retirement.

6. Should I “match” what my relatives gave my children last year?

Come Chinese New Year, comparisons are inevitable. We compare PSLE scores, relationships status and even angbao values as well. It’s not uncommon to feel pressured to match how “big” of an angbao your relative or friend gave your kids. But it’s also important to remember that angbao-giving isn’t a competition and it isn’t where you should care about “losing face”.

What CNY is not: a status battle out of “Crazy Rich Asians”.
Image credit: @jellyfied via Instagram

Remember that the tradition is all about wishing others an auspicious year ahead, rather than being a platform to flex that paycheck. This is also why no one typically signs off their angbaos with their names!

7. How should I handle my children’s angbao money?

While some skip out on giving their children angbaos when they’re too young to understand the tradition, Charles Tan, 60, has been giving his children red packets since they were born. “We transfer it to their baby bank accounts afterwards,” he said, “It’s more of something we do for fun.”

Almost all parents help to collect their children’s money until they’ve grown to be more financially independent. To be financially savvy, just remember to put the angbao money into a savings account instead of a piggy bank to avoid missing out on potential interest earned.

8. During this recession, how can I help if my parents are financially-strapped?

“Can I give angbaos on behalf of my parents?” asked a peer of mine. Given inflation and the increase in GST, it’s not atypical for some of our close family members to be financially-strapped. Angbao-giving does create a dent in our bank accounts at the end of the day, which might be extra-disconcerting in the current economic climate.

But if you have the means to help out, one solution is to give folks you know are struggling a “larger” angbao to tide them through the season.

9. Who should I give angbaos to?

The general consensus is that you should give to younger generations, such as your children, nieces and nephews and grandchildren. Most people also give angbaos to helpers, neighbours and other public workers just as a gesture of well wishes. Some C-suite executives also give angbaos to their subordinates.

In Singapore, it’s also customary to give angbaos “upwards”, to your elders, such as parents, grandparents – and don’t forget your in-laws! – as a show of appreciation and filial piety. These elders will also likely want to give you an angbao in return so brace yourself for the back and forth of “no, you take my angbao!”

As for those of the same generation or “status” such as your siblings, friends and colleagues, there’s no hard and fast rule to follow. HR Manager Dennis Lee, 32, said, “for fun maybe I’ll give $8 to $10, but usually there’s no need to give to friends and peers”.

Pro-tip: Keep some handy extra red packets ready in your bag during the visiting season if you’re looking to return the gesture when receiving unexpected angbaos from peers.

Chinese New Year in Singapore

As the generations pass, it’s easy for traditions to fall through the cracks; but Chinese New Year certainly won’t be as fun without all the little customs everyone participates in together.

Get your next home visit right with these eight must-knows about angbao giving. If you need any more tips, below are more CNY-related articles to refer to:

• Meaning behind CNY traditions in Singapore
• Advanced CNY greetings 
• CNY songs
• CNY gift ideas for your in-laws

* Some names have been concealed for anonymity.
Last updated by Josiah Neo on 8th February 2026.

The post 9 Must-Knows About Giving Angbao For Clueless Couples, Including Suggested Rates & Auspicious Rules appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

While reunion dinners and red packets remain staples when it comes to Chinese New Year, many other CNY traditions practised by our ancestors have sadly faded over time. But if your mantra is “new year, new me”, then it may be worth bringing these disappearing CNY traditions back for extra huat.

From customs dating back to the Han Dynasty to folklore beliefs, here are some CNY traditions to know, and maybe even practice to test the theory.

1. Bribing the Kitchen God

Blessings for the whole family

Image adapted from: @babanyonyamuseum & @klsckk via Instagram

Bribery is a practice as old as time, but this one is quite wholesome. In order to lead a harmonious life, families from as early as the Han Dynasty would display a painting of the Kitchen God above their hearths, and burn it on the 23rd of the 12th lunar month to send him back to the heavens and report on their deeds.

The send-off would involve offerings of sticky sweets like rice cakes and maltose candy – either so that he would only say sweet things about them, or so that the sugar would glue his mouth together lest he had complaints.

Families will then welcome the Kitchen God back on the 4th day of CNY with incense, paper money, and fruits, and hang up a new portrait of him for the year.

If you’d like to ensure heavenly blessings for your family, this year’s send-off will take place on 10th February 2026. Don’t forget to prepare plenty of treats.

2. Hiding silver coins in dumplings

Extra fortune for the lucky one

Image adapted from: @pigboss_id via Instagram

Dumplings are often eaten during CNY, and it’s not just because they are delicious. These crescent-shaped parcels were actually made to resemble the shape of ancient gold and silver ingots back in the day, believed to usher in a prosperous new year. People used to hide a silver coin in one of the dumplings during the Ming Dynasty, and whoever was lucky enough to find it would be blessed with extra fortune.

But we recommend informing your diners of the coin beforehand to prevent any safety hazards. An alternative is to hide a piece of candy instead – it’s a safe and cost-effective alternative, and works especially well if you have children.

3. Staying up till dawn on the eve of CNY

Originates from the legend of Nian

Image adapted from: @synthesis.sg via Instagram

While most are familiar with the Nian legend behind Chinese New Year, one tradition that originated from it is becoming lost to time. We’re talking about shou sui, the tradition of staying up all night on the eve of CNY. The legend goes that villagers stayed awake till the dawn of the new year in order to keep vigil as the Nian monster prowled, but the custom has since been adapted to symbolise reminiscing about the old year and welcoming in the new. It’s even believed that the longer children stay up, the longer their parents will live.

Nowadays, most families no longer practice Shousui in its entirety, but will perhaps stay up a bit past midnight to make the celebrations last. If you’d like to commit to this tradition, though, we recommend watching the live CCTV Spring Festival Gala till 1am on YouTube and spending the rest of the time playing these addictive poker card games.

4. Leaving red packets under pillows

To ward off demons

Image credit: Huiyuan You

There’s the Tooth Fairy in Western culture, but back in the day, Chinese children also woke up with money under their pillow. In ancient times, it’s said that a demon called Sui would visit sleeping children on the eve of CNY and curse them with illnesses. A desperate elderly couple wrapped 8 coins in red paper and placed them under their child’s pillow for protection, which emitted a bright light that scared off Sui.

This tradition became widespread and eventually evolved into putting cash in red packets under pillows instead. Yes, this is the origin of angpao, or ya sui qian – literally “money to suppress Sui”.

Nowadays, red packets are given to children upfront, so perhaps Sui has been chased off for good. But if your kiddo is worried about monsters under their bed, this ancient tradition may allay their fears and give them a nice surprise for the 1st day of CNY.

5. Eating vegetarian food on the 1st day of CNY

Begin the year with peace

The Buddha’s Delight dish.
Image credit: smelly lunchbox

Another low-effort, dying tradition is going vegetarian on the 1st day of CNY. This practice has origins in Mahayana Buddhism, which follows the rule of being compassionate to all creatures. But besides that, avoiding meat is also thought to purify the body and spirit so that you can start afresh for the new year.

If you’re worried about missing out on good food this way, fear not – there’s plenty of delicious vegetarian dishes available. The best one has got to be Luo Han Jai or Buddha’s Delight, a braised veggie dish enjoyed by monks that’s become a CNY staple for this reason.

6. Avoiding the number 4 in red packet money

No unlucky numbers allowed

Everyone knows that 4 is considered an inauspicious number as it sounds similar to “death” in Chinese, but the belief also extends to the amount of money we should put in CNY red packets. As a rule, the total value should not have the number 4 in it – that means no $4, $14, $40, and so on.

However, it’s pretty common to find $4 in your red packet nowadays, so we suppose the rule has lost its hold. But if you’d like to get into your relatives’ good graces this year, we suggest reading up on angbao must-knows and our guide to booking and collecting CNY notes.

7. Staying home on the 3rd day of CNY

To avoid misfortune

Image credit: @thesmartlocalsg via Instagram

If your social battery has worn out after the first 2 days of CNY visitations, the good news is that you get to take a breather on the 3rd. The 3rd day of Chinese New Year is known as Chi Gou Ri, or Red Dog Day – a reference to the God of Blazing Wrath. On this day, this deity will walk the streets and bring misfortune upon anyone who comes across him. Therefore, it was common practice for families to hunker down and stay indoors.

As only the first 2 days of CNY are public holidays in Singapore, it’s pretty hard for most folks to stay home on Chi Gou Ri. Hence, we can see how this tradition is tough to keep up – so maybe just cross your fingers when heading out.

8. Sending off the God of Poverty

Rid your home of bad vibes

CNY is all about maximising your prosperity – and besides bringing in wealth, there’s also an ancient method of literally chasing away poverty. In Chinese folklore, there’s a God of Poverty that lives extremely frugally, wears only tattered clothes, and survives on porridge. Homes that are left dirty on the 6th day of CNY may attract this god and his misfortune, which is why sending off the God of Poverty was a popular practice during the Tang Dynasty.

The tradition is actually really simple: just sweep your house clean and dispose of all accumulated garbage on the 6th day, to symbolise the departure of bad fortune. In that respect, perhaps many of us are still continuing this ancient CNY tradition without knowing it.

Revive these lesser-known CNY traditions for the new year

While some of these CNY traditions may be outdated for a reason, they still carry meaningful reminders about family, harmony, and starting the year with good intentions. Whether you’d like to give these customs a go or not, they offer a precious glimpse into how past generations have celebrated this important holiday.

More CNY-related news:

• Advanced CNY greetings to say
• River Hongbao at GBTB
• Johor Jaya CNY Bazaar 2026

Cover image adapted from: @babanyonyamuseum & @pigboss_id via Instagram, Huiyuan You

The post 8 Disappearing CNY Traditions That May Be Worth Reviving For A More Prosperous Year Ahead appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

ICYMI: From March 2026, you can use your SG Culture Pass to buy SingLit books. This includes novels, non-fiction essays, poetry, and plays in English, Chinese, Malay, or Tamil. While details on how to purchase aren’t confirmed yet, here’s a SingLit book quiz to help you choose your first title.

What are SingLit books?

Singapore literature, or more commonly known as SingLit, is literary work created by Singaporeans or permanent residents. Most SingLit books explore culture, history, and daily life, showcasing different sides of Singaporeans’ past and present. Some popular SingLit authors you may recognise include Russell Lee, Sonny Liew, and Amanda Lee Koe.

Read a new book with this quiz

SingLit books aren’t boring or cringy; sometimes, we just need to give them a try. Hopefully, this quiz nudges you to pick up your first of many SingLit titles.

For more books and related reads:

• Kobo eReader guide
• Niche bookstores in Singapore
• Iconic bookstores that have closed

Cover image adapted from: @bellamarinda & @jemmawei via Instagram
Quiz images adapted from: Eatbook, Grab, Netflix, Apple TV+, Disney+, @zp_hoult, @christchurchattractions, @raniele_shin via Instagram

The post Quiz: Which SingLit Book Should You Get With Your SG Culture Pass? Answer 7 Questions To Find Your Next Read appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

It’s almost time for our annual Chinese New Year bai nian visits. For some of us, this means angbaos. For others, it’s a great time to feast on yummy CNY goodies. One thing’s for sure, and that’s the fact that we’ll be uttering CNY greetings to the friends and fam we’ll be meeting.

If you’re gunning to make a lasting impression, we’ve got you covered. Move aside, basic overused well wishes: here are advanced Chinese New Year greetings to say this year that’ll make you seem less of a “jiak kantang”.

When is it appropriate to start and stop saying Chinese New Year greetings?

It’s not uncommon to start saying Chinese New Year greetings a few days before the actual start of CNY (17th February 2026), especially during lohei, which is traditionally done at reunion dinners on the eve of Chinese New Year. You can continue with CNY greetings all the way till the 15th day of CNY, or Chap Goh Mei.

Is it okay to use Chinese New Year greetings even if I’m not Chinese?

Yes, in multicultural Singapore, you’ll find many non-Chinese using these new year greetings with their Chinese friends. If you’re unsure about pronunciation, a simple Happy New Year is still well-appreciated during this festive season.

1. 马舞春风 (mǎ wǔ chūn fēng)

Translation: To start the new year with great momentum

In literal terms, this phrase describes horses prancing energetically in the spring breeze. On a deeper level though, it’s about kicking off the new year with confidence and vitality as we head into 2026, striving to become better, ever-growing versions of ourselves with strong momentum to take on this year’s challenges.

Now, if only there were a way to magically shed the extra pounds we’re about to gain from the countless hotpot feasts, we’re all ears.

2. 马到成功 (mǎ dào chéng gōng)

Translation: To achieve instant success

It’s the Year of the Horse, so here’s a timely phrase you can casually slip into conversations this year. The saying carries the idea of achieving quick wins and smooth progress in whatever someone is pursuing, perfect for wishing them an effortless start to 2026.

Originally used to describe swift victories in ancient Chinese battles, this advanced CNY greeting now blesses recipients with success and momentum in life or work, making it a handy one to whip out for career-minded friends and ambitious cousins.

3. 大展鸿图 (dà zhǎn hóng tú)

Translation: May your great plans come to fruition

This CNY greeting is handy for the younger ones to greet working adults with – a.k.a. the main source of angbaos. It expresses a wish for one’s grand plans to materialise in the future. In other words, you’re basically wishing someone success in achieving their goals.

4. 愈来愈靓 (yù lái yù jìng)

Translation: Get prettier and prettier

Roughly translated as someone “getting prettier and prettier”, this phrase serves as a compliment to a woman’s beauty. Perhaps you can use it to score some brownie points with your mother-in-law or wifey this CNY.

5. 天赐良缘 (tiān cì liáng yuán)

Translation: Heaven-sent relationship

Image credit: Jessica Lai

If you know someone who is #foreveralone who wants to get out of the single zone, wish them well with this phrase during your CNY meet-up. It means that you wish for their Mr or Ms Right to appear right around the corner. Psst… if you’re an extra solid friend, maybe introduce your good-looking cousin to them this year. Who knows? They could be The One.

6. 笑口常开 (xiào kǒu cháng kāi)

Translation: To be happy and smile often

You can greet anyone with this phrase regardless of their age or gender. When you use it, you’re wishing the recipient a year full of happiness and smiles. It’s the more cheem alternative to your usual “新年快乐” (xīn nián kuài lè) greeting.

7. 吉星高照 (jí xīng gāo zhào)

Translation: May your lucky star shine bright

Referencing one’s lucky star isn’t just something that’s done in English; it’s used in Chinese culture as well. When you say this CNY greeting to someone, you’re asking their “lucky star to shine bright” and wishing them good luck and success in life.

8. 金榜题名 (jīn bǎng tí míng)

Translation: To succeed in the imperial examination

If your greetings bank for your younger school-age cousins is limited to just “学业进步” (xué yè jìn bù), it’s time for you up your game.

Level up with this saying which translates to a wish for someone to succeed in “imperial examinations”. While imperial examinations were abolished in China during the Qing Dynasty in 1905, Singapore’s still got national exams, so use this to wish someone academic success. Who knows, it just might help them the next time they’re dealing with notoriously difficult exam questions.

9. 锦绣前程 (jǐn xiù qián chéng)

Translation: Bright future

This Chinese idiom wishes someone a good future ahead. It’s another good CNY greeting to keep in mind if you have relatives who are still young or in school.

10. 寿比南山 (shòu bǐ nán shān)

Translation: May you live a long and happy life

Needless to say, respecting our elders is extremely important, so try to have at least one advanced CNY greeting up your sleeve for them. And generally, you’d want to wish them a long and healthy life – which is precisely what this phrase is all about.

To score some bonus points, you may also throw in the phrase 福如东海 (fú rú dōng hǎi) beforehand to wish them boundless fortune.

11. 升官发财 (shēng guān fā cái)

Translation: May you get promoted and receive a raise

Most of us might know that “发财” (fā cái) means getting rich, but if you add in “升官” (shēng guān) in front, you’ve got yourself a saying that means “receiving a promotion and getting more wealth”.

TL;DR: Use this to greet any career-minded person you know and hope they give you a fatter angbao.

12. 财源广进 (cái yuán guǎng jìn)

Translation: Wishing for money and wealth to generously enter one’s home

Image credit: @jellyfied via Instagram

Another phrase which brings in the idea of rolling in cash, this CNY greeting wishes for money and wealth to generously enter one’s home. Baller lifestyle, where ya at?

13. 阖家安康 (hé jiā ān kāng)

Translation: May your whole family be safe and healthy

Money and good fortune might be important, but what’s the point of wealth if you don’t have the health to enjoy it? To balance things out, don’t forget to wish your entire family safety and good health with phrases like this one.

CNY greetings & well wishes for CNY 2026

Even if you can’t remember all of these CNY greetings, it’ll still be useful to memorise one or two in your head. After all, you never know when they’ll come in handy or score you some extra angbaos.

More CNY articles:

• CNY dos and don’ts
• CNY angbao guide
• Online stores in SG to shop for CNY clothes

Originally published on 31 January 2022. Last updated by Celine Wee on 3rd February 2026.

The post 13 Advanced CNY Greetings To Say During Family Gatherings That’ll Make You Less Of A “Jiak Kantang” appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

Step into any mall in Singapore during the month of January and it’d be hard to avoid the zodiac prediction setups. They’re usually accompanied by photo-worthy sculptures of your zodiac animal, making them all the more attention-grabbing.

If you’d like to peruse your fortune in your own time rather than rubbing shoulders with overzealous strangers trying to catch a glimpse of the boards, bookmark this article to see what the Year of the Horse has in store for you.

How are zodiac predictions determined?

But first, you might be wondering how zodiac predictions even come about. Chinese zodiac predictions are calculated based on the 12-year zodiac sign cycle, AKA the 12 animals, and how each zodiac interacts with the 5 elements – earth, water, fire, metal, and wood – yin and yang forces, and the Lunar calendar as a whole.

Image credit: Csaba Fikker via iStockphoto

It’s complicated stuff, but also produces pretty specific readings based on various ba zi “stars” that come into play. For the uninitiated, ba zi is a form of Chinese astrology. It involves not only your date and time of birth, but even the precise way that they interact with the 5 elements, calculated against an ancient Chinese form of timekeeping called the Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches.

Sounds super cheem and fairytale-like, doesn’t it? Fret not, we’ve analysed the findings across several reputable almanacs by certified ba zi masters as well as geomancy resources, and will lay out the zodiac predictions for you in a way that’s easy to digest, and actually applicable to your modern life.

1. Horse

Spike in leadership opportunities; avoid getting negatively influenced

Image credit: Mikhail Nilov via Pexels

According to ba zi calculations, you will receive support from the General Star in 2026. We’re talking general as in military general, and this star is all about power, authority, and respect. What that spells for you is plenty of leadership opportunities and being thrust into the spotlight in the best way possible. All the hard work you’ve put in in recent years will bear recognition and reward!

One important note, though. Horse signs born in 1990 in particular need to take care not to be influenced by others. With your authority and appeal shining bright this year, others will try to latch onto you and steer you towards their own selfish gains. Just focus on carving your own path and avoid following blindly, if not, you might be led to ruin.

Horse birth years: 2026, 2014, 2002, 1990, 1978, 1966, 1954, 1942

2. Goat

Heightened risk of online scams & nightlife altercations; higher workload

The Cascading Clouds Star is looming for the Goat sign this year, which means there will be detractors lurking around trying to pull you down. You won’t have to live in doubt and fear of everyone around you though, as this star points specifically towards the cyberspace, and dark, rowdy venues. This can be interpreted as a heightened risk of online scams, and potential scuffles at nightlife scenes or concerts.

Mark your calendars for June and October, as these are the months that zodiac predictions forecast a steep increase in your workload. Approach it not with dread, however, as this will be more of an opportunity than a punishment. If you’re able to slay your duties, your efforts are forecasted to bear great fruit by year-end.

Goat birth years: 2015, 2003, 1991, 1979, 1967, 1955, 1943, 1931

3. Monkey

Avoid places with heavy negative energy; be mindful of your words

Image credit: iStock

Your ba zi says that the Funeral Door Star will be activated this year, but don’t freak out just yet – it doesn’t necessarily mean actual death. It signifies a weakened spirit at spaces associated with death, and leads to overall bad juju in your day-to-day life.

How do you go about combatting this? Avoid hospital visits and attending funerals unless absolutely necessary, otherwise you might be immersing yourself in misfortune for the year ahead. Another tip that is mentioned in the Monkey sign’s zodiac predictions is to watch your words, otherwise you might slip into conflict even when it is not your intention.

Monkey birth years: 2016, 2004, 1992, 1980, 1968, 1956, 1944, 1932

4. Rooster

Excellent love luck; avoid frequent large gatherings to protect your fortune levels

2026 is a good year for single Rooster signs to find a mate. The feminine Moon Star brings about peaceful and gentle blessings of romance, especially for those born in 1993 and even 2005 – ahh, young love! Meanwhile, folks who have already settled down will be able to enjoy stable and fulfilling relationships with their partner as well as their kin.

But with all these positive ties, be mindful to avoid frequent large social gatherings. A big party here and there is fine, but try to keep it to a max of 2 per quarter as they may be a drain on your energy and lead to your otherwise abundant fortune being depleted.

Rooster birth years: 2017, 2005, 1993, 1981, 1969, 1957, 1945, 1933

5. Dog

Clashes with fire; romantic sparks fizzling out

Image credit: Fire Armour

With 2026 being a Fire Horse year, Dog signs are directly implicated with an elevated risk of fire-related accidents. Invest in some home fire safety upgrades to keep tragedy at bay; it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Conversely, what’s not burning red hot this year is your love life. Zodiac predictions for Dog signs point towards fizzled-out romances, especially for those who have passed the 4-year mark and above. You are advised to work really hard at restoring the spark especially during the 2nd quarter of the year, to actively prevent relationships from crumbling.

Dog birth years: 2018, 2006, 1994, 1982, 1970, 1958, 1946, 1934

6. Pig

Be more mindful of small expenditures; avoid sustained financial drain

While you can rest assured that there won’t be any major financial calamity for the Pig sign this year, be warned that small drains will add up to a big hole in your bank account. We’re talking about gambling habits like weekly 4D runs, or even betting a lil too much during mahjong and card game sessions over CNY.

Even for upcoming sales that may seem too irresistible to pass up, pause and ask yourself if it’s truly a need. Your wallet will thank you come December 2026.

Pig birth years: 2019, 2007, 1995, 1983, 1971, 1959, 1947, 1935

7. Rat

Low to no rewards for your efforts; keep a distance from Horse signs

We’re sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but 2026 is not forecasted to be a great year for the Rat sign at all. Your sign will clash with the Horse this year, which is the zodiac sign for 2026. If you have peers of this zodiac sign at work or in your social circles, it may be wise to establish some distance to reduce chances of conflict. ‘Cause spoiler alert: their energy for this year is sure to envelop you.

A prominent theme you’re likely to notice over the months is that despite really high effort on your part, there are likely to be negligible rewards. But don’t let that fill you with too much dismay, just keep your head down and barrel through with your responsibilities – the fog will gradually lift come the 3rd and 4th quarters of the year.

Rat birth years: 2020, 2008, 1996, 1984, 1972, 1960, 1948, 1936

8. Ox

Past years of hard work will bear fruit; be careful of relationship complications

The Ox is a sign of hard work and steadiness, and 2026 is a year where your impeccable track record will bear abundant fruit. Expect recognition and respect abound, with those born in 1985 shining particularly bright on the career and social front.

One aspect to keep tabs on, however, is the risk of relationship woes – particularly as the third party, even if it’s unintentional. Don’t scoff, but it’ll literally be your mission this year to keep that overwhelming magnetism in check; if not, it might very well land you in hot water.

Ox birth years: 2021, 2009, 1997, 1985, 1973, 1961, 1949, 1937

9. Tiger

Risk of injuries, accidents & conflict in certain months

The bad news: Chaos seems to be a pretty major theme in your year. But the good news is that your zodiac predictions also pinpoint the months and periods to look out for, so you’re better equipped to safeguard yourself and your loved ones against terrible misfortune.

In August and September, Tiger signs will face a high risk of injuries and accidents albeit through the fault of others, and not your own. Drivers in particular need to be extra wary, and avoid engaging in road feuds for the sake of your safety. Meanwhile, September and October carry risks of violence and conflict. So don’t pick fights, and walk away if you’re the one being provoked.

Tiger birth years: 2022, 2010, 1998, 1986, 1974, 1962, 1950, 1938

10. Rabbit

Speak up for yourself to achieve greatness; invest actively in your romances

The past 3 years or so may have been lukewarm for the Rabbit sign in terms of career and finances, but now’s the time for you to take a leap of faith. Zodiac predictions point towards favourable outcomes so long as you put the work in, and stop being shy about showcasing your talents.

Those born in 1999 will face some romance struggles due to the Salty Pool Star though. The Salty Pool is a negative Peach Blossom star which makes you come across as non-committal. While this isn’t a death sentence on your relationship, you will need to put in extra work to prove that you’re in it for the long run.

Rabbit birth years: 2023, 2011, 1999, 1987, 1975, 1963, 1951, 1939

11. Dragon

Choose your circle wisely; enjoy stable finances

The key to a huat 2026 for Dragon signs is to surround yourself with only those who have pure and supportive intentions for you. Either wallowing in self-pity or sticking with two-faced folks will sap you of your energy; portray positivity and it will be magnified and returned in your favour tenfold.

In terms of finances, the Noblemen Star will guard you against catastrophic financial losses this year. This is provided you go about investments and financial decisions with prudence, of course. Don’t go depleting your funds with reckless abandon and thinking that your ba zi will magically make your bank account bounce back!

Dragon birth years: 2024, 2012, 2000, 1988, 1976, 1964, 1952, 1940

12. Snake

Stay focused & diligent; take care of your health to prevent minor ailments

Image credit: Edward Jenner via Pexels

Discipline is the name of the game. While 2026 is forecasted to be a year of stability and no mishaps for Snake signs, zodiac predictions point towards memory issues. Exercise diligence in marking down all important dates and to-dos, and consider using some productivity apps to avoid slipping into complacency.

On the health front, you might run into more bouts of heatiness, and face a longer recovery time than usual when it comes to minor ailments like colds and flus. Prevention is better than cure, so keep these periods of diminished performance at bay by consuming a healthy diet and curbing unsavoury lifestyle habits like late nights, smoking, and excessive drinking.

Snake birth years: 2025, 2013, 2001, 1989, 1977, 1965, 1953, 1941

What your 2026 zodiac predictions have in store for you

While these zodiac predictions may give you some clarity on what to do more of and what to avoid this year, it should by no means dictate the exact way you live your life. So even if your fortune readings state that prosperity and riches are on the horizon, you should still hold onto your job and earn an honest living, and not quit to invest your entire savings in stocks.

Similarly, even those zodiac signs with less auspicious readings need not live in fear and gloom. Go about your days with healthy habits and a positive outlook, and who knows? You might very well get to change the course of the stars and make 2026 your best year yet.

Some self-improvement guides to take matters into your own hands:

• Guide to going to the gym
• Guide to getting therapy
• Online counselling in Singapore
• Immune system mistakes

Cover image adapted from: Mikhail Nilov via Pexels
Zodiac predictions adapted from: House of Feng Shui Singapore, Geomancy Centre For Applied Feng Shui Research

The post Zodiac Predictions 2026: What Do Your Love, Career & Overall Fortune Hold In The Year Of The Horse? appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.