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11 Coldest Places In Singapore To Escape To When The Weather Is Sibei Hot Outside

Gracelyn Lim — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 01:00:23 +0000

Coldest places in Singapore

Singapore’s weather has been nothing short of ~~warm~~ hot in the recent few months. It doesn’t matter if you’ve just taken a shower or just standing still – you’ll find beads of sweat dripping down your body in a matter of minutes these days. So, if you’re looking for a place to fight off the heat, we’ve collated the coldest places in Singapore to seek refuge.

1. Movie theatres

Ever gone on a movie date and Bae told you she’s cold? Yeah, it isn’t because she’s trying to get you to cuddle up with her. She’s probably actually freezing in her seat as movie theatres in Singapore are notoriously cold.

But in this weather where you’re sweating your pits off, tell her to bring a jacket next time, so you can enjoy the cold on your own. Don’t blame us if she gives you the cold shoulder though. Hey, you’re the one who’s looking up the coldest places in Singapore.

For an extra chilly experience, we recommend watching a horror movie. You’d definitely be guaranteed chills down your spine and your hair standing on end – is the movie theatre particularly cold or is there someone sitting next to you? We’re not going to tell you.

2. Changi Airport & Paragon Malls

Air-conditioned comfort and a gondola boat ride? You’ll only find this at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands.

There’s nothing quite like the relief of stepping out of the blazing sun into the icy blasts of air-conditioning of shopping malls in Singapore. And with 171 malls – and counting – dotting the island, it won’t be too hard to find one to loiter into for a solid minute of cold air.

The Forest Valley at Jewel Changi is kept at 23˚C.

A majority of shopping malls keep their air-conditioners set to a breezy 23˚C to keep the place nice and cold. We’ve found that Jewel Changi and Paragon are known to be extra cold.

Sure, there are a number of new malls in Singapore like One Holland Village that have gone the environmentally-friendly route that don’t fully air-condition the place. But even these are designed to allow wind and airflow so you’re not dripping in sweat as you shop.

3. Supermarket dairy aisle

Here’s an alternative to the coldest shopping malls that’s probably just a couple of minutes from your home – the dairy aisle at the supermarket or grocery store. It sounds oddly specific but there’s a good reason for it: dairy products must be kept between 2˚C and 4˚C. Plus, the shelves are usually open, unlike freezers that have closed doors to keep the cold in.

If that doesn’t work, then there’s at least the frozen section that’s bound to have icy treats for sale. Ice cream cones and popsicles are sure to do the trick.

4. NLB libraries

Maybe you favour TV shows on Netflix over picking up a book for entertainment these days. But it might be time to start reading again in this heat. Our NLB libraries aren’t just a great source for paperbacks, they’ve got deliciously cold air-conditioning too. If you’re planning to stay for an extended period of time, just remember to make a seat booking on the NLB website.

Pro-tip: The reference shelves might prove to be the coldest spots in the library. These books are often kept in the shade to prevent sun damage to these old books. They’re also much quieter; let’s be real, there really aren’t that many people looking up reference journals when the world’s knowledge is easily accessible through Google.

5. Cold room in flower wholesale centres

There’s a reason why flowers like roses and tulips don’t grow naturally on this side of the planet – it’s just way too hot! But there’s a reason why they’re still so readily available for flower delivery in Singapore: cold rooms at flower shops.

This is where fresh cut flowers are stored so they don’t wilt in the sun. Temperatures here are kept around the 6˚C-10˚C range and it’s not uncommon to find workers decked out in winter parkas here.

6. Gardens by the Bay in the evenings

Image credit: Gardens by the Bay

Where else can you find non-native flora in Singapore? At the Gardens by the Bay of course, which means these greenhouses are set to cooler temperatures to allow the floral displays of cherry blossoms and orchids to maintain lustre throughout the exhibition.

Cloud Forest.

The Cloud Forest might feel cooler because of the mist coming from the indoor waterfall. But since most of the plants here are tropical, the temperature is set to 23˚C-25˚C. If you want it cooler, the Flower Dome has a lower temperature range of 23˚C-25˚C. Look out for exhibitions on delicate spring flowers like Tulipmania – that’s when temperatures drop to their lowest.

Flower Dome in the evening.

During the day, the Flower Dome can get pretty warm considering how it’s made of glass. Come in the evenings if you want to feel the chill.

Gardens by the Bay

Recommended tickets at S$10.00

S$24.00

S$50.00

S$10.00

7. Downtown Line especially the wee hours of the morning

Here’s an MRT design secret you probably didn’t know: the Downtown Line runs entirely underground through the city. In fact, Bencoolen MRT station is the deepest public place in Singapore – it’s 43m below street level. If you paid attention in science class, you know that this means it gets chilly down here.

Come in the wee hours of the morning if you really want your bones shivering and your teeth chattering. That first train at 5.30am when everyone else is asleep is the coldest.

8. The office

Image credit: Uchify

They don’t call the corporate world cold for nothing. Offices are always frigid no matter how warm it is outside. It’s cold enough that I’ve seen colleagues of mine bring in thick sweaters and jackets that wouldn’t look out of place at a winter destination like Japan or Korea.

As to why offices are so cold, apparently, it helps keep people productive and focused. Colder temperatures became the norm after most workers in the past would wear 3-piece suits to the office. The air-conditioning was necessary to prevent unsightly pit stains.

Also, studies suggest that men prefer working in cooler conditions, while women prefer it warmer. If you find yourself drenched in sweat after heading out for lunch, hang out in departments that have more men – you’ll cool down that much faster.

9. Snow City

This one is pretty self-explanatory. As a kid, this was the closest I got to experiencing winter during the school holidays. “Winter” and “Singapore” may not exist outside of daydreams, but it’s very real at Snow City.

The indoor snow centre is a literal winter wonderland with snowy slopes to slide down, ice sculptures to pose with, and even bumper cars on ice.

The temperatures are at a freezing 5˚C to prevent anything from melting into a puddle, so winter jackets, pants, gloves, and boots are a must. Don’t worry, they’re available for free for ticketholders. But you can also turn to winter clothes shops to pick up the necessary.

P.S. Snow City is closing on 30th September 2026, so be sure to get your winter fix locally before it all melts away. Tickets are on sale of up to 30% till the end at $19/adult and $16/child, and this includes 1 hour of snow play and 1 bumper car ride, so you’ll definitely get your money’s worth to cool down during El Nino.

Snow City

Admission Fee

From $19/child | $26/adult

Recommended tickets at S$6.28

S$14.49

S$6.28

10. Kallang Ice World

Image credit: @keeriyan via Instagram

If you want cold with a side of activity, Kallang Ice World is the move. The rink has to stay frozen for the ice to hold, which means the air temperature in there is genuinely Arctic; you’ll feel the chill the moment you step off the warm Kallang streets and onto the rink floor.

Sessions start from $20 for adults for a 2-hour block with skates included, and on weekends, the place fills up fast, so arrive early if you want to secure a spot and spend the next 2 hours in blissful, shivering comfort.

Kallang Ice World

Admission Fee

Adults: $20

11. National Orchid Garden Sembcorp Cool House

Image credit: Sembcorp

Anyone who’s walked through the Botanic Gardens in the midday heat knows the particular kind of suffering involved. The Sembcorp Cool House, tucked inside the National Orchid Garden, is your reward for making it through. Designed to replicate a high-elevation montane forest at 1,000-2,000m above sea level, temperatures inside hold between 16°C and 23°C, which is the kind of cool that makes you stop and just stand there for a minute.

Once you’ve recovered from the heat outside, you’ll find around 1,000 orchid species and hybrids displayed across 5 biogeographical regions alongside carnivorous plants and shimmery-leafed begonias. Entry is bundled with the National Orchid Garden admission fee: $5 for local adults and $1 for students and seniors. If you’re going, time it for midday when the contrast between the scorching gardens outside and the cool air inside hits hardest.

National Orchid Garden

Admission Fee

Singapore residents: $5 for adults, $1 for students and seniors aged 60 and above

Recommended tickets at S$9.66

S$9.66

Escape the heat at the cold places in Singapore

“If only Singapore had 4 seasons,” said every Singaporean who’s ever had to walk in the blazing sun to get lunch. It’s a wish we’ve frequently made ourselves but alas, it’s yet to come true. Nonetheless, with this list of coldest places in Singapore, at least there’s less suffering to be had under this heat.

Thankfully, almost everywhere we go is air-conditioned, even the buses we ride, so maybe we should be a little more grateful for these little luxuries we have.

For more laughs:

Originally published on 18th May 2025. Last updated on 5th June 2026.

The post 11 Coldest Places In Singapore To Escape To When The Weather Is Sibei Hot Outside appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

18 Disgusting Things Singaporeans Need To Stop Doing On Public Transport

Joycelyn Yeow — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 01:00:33 +0000

Bad habits people need to stop doing on public transport

Most of us spend a good amount of time commuting via public transport, whether it’s on the cutie Bus 825, the TEL line, or simply taking a long scenic bus ride around the country. So naturally, we’ll encounter some colourful people along the way. We’re not talking about Stand-up Stacey or Bag-down Benny.

We’ve rounded up a list of bad habits people do on public transport, from picking their noses to doing pull-ups on the handlebars. If you’re a guilty party, please stop. And for the rest of us, may this list validate your fury and injustice.

Note: our photos have been clearly photoshopped – we did not become an actual menace for the sake of content.

1. Airing feet on the opposite seats

Unfortunately, this might be a common sight we see, especially in buses: passengers airing their feet on the seats. Why they think we can’t smell the stink, we’ll never know. But keep your toes in your shoes, we don’t need to see your fungal-infected toenails. Your outstretched feet also take up space, and others can’t sit since you’re occupying the seats.

2. Resting feet on handrails

Image credit: Kit Suman via Unsplash

Passengers resting their feet on handrails is another level from placing them on the opposite seats. Even though their feet don’t take up any seats, they’re equally bad – lagi even worse. While they might be comfortable doing yoga positions in public, nobody wants to see that. Know someone who does this? Give them some ankle weights to wear.

3. Manspreading

Here’s the hard truth about manspreading – not only does it take up space, it also exposes your bulge to the world. And nobody needs to see that. Also, ladies, manspreading doesn’t just apply to the male species. If you’re wearing a dress or skirt, remember to be aware and cross your legs. We don’t want any unwanted peepings to occur.

4. Kiap-ing the poles with their butt cheeks

We get that you’re tired after a long day of work. But do you really need to kiap the poles with your butt cheeks for balance? If you’re leaning your entire body on the pole, other passengers won’t have space to grab the pole for balance. The poles are meant to be shared, people. Plus, what if you accidentally let out a fart? Gross.

5. Not preparing your phone or wallet at the gantry

Image credit: @LTAsg via X

There’s enough time for you to prepare your phone or wallet at the gantry, but a handful of commuters collectively decided to start fishing in the depths of their BTV Dumpling Bags right at the gantry. Before you know it, the gantry line becomes a human jam reminiscent of JB customs when the e-gates are down. If you can’t multitask, stand off to the side to find it before approaching the gantry.

6. Bringing pungent food onboard (& feigning ignorance)

Technically, bringing pungent food onboard isn’t illegal – unless you’re carrying durians. But there are other foods that give off a funky smell too. We’re talking fermented soy products, shrimp-flavoured food, stinky tofu, and this might be controversial, but anything with belacan. Sorry not sorry to have said that, but these foods might not be tolerable for everyone.

7. Children running around

To parents who let their young children run around, why? The train’s handlebars might look like monkey bars, but this is the MRT, not your neighbourhood playground. Plus, the noise from your kids is very disruptive to the other passengers too. If they want to run around, bring them to one of the many free playgrounds, or sign them up for a marathon.

8. Doing pull-ups

Hi sir, this one not monkey bar ya. The bus or train isn’t your personal gym, so please don’t do pull-ups with the handrails. It’s disruptive, prevents others from holding the handrails for support, and frankly quite dangerous. Leave your working out to actual ActiveSG gyms instead.

9. Stinking the cabin after gym sessions

To the fitspos on Instagram, you’re lucky your viewers can’t smell you stinking up the cabin after gym sessions. Sure, it’s shiok when you feel the aircon while you’re holding the overhead handrails, but your deodorant isn’t strong enough to mask your musty, sour, and warm stench. For the sake of the shorter person beside you, please take a shower after your exercise, and maybe you’ll hit a new PR on hygiene.

10. Couples full-on PDA-ing

Keep it PG13.

GET A ROOM! We understand that love is an illogical emotion, but the rest of us can do without the intense PDA. We’re just on our way to from work; the last thing we want is to hear the exchange of saliva or to see you sneakily touch your girlfriend’s boobs. Think about the young kids onboard too – let’s not scar their brains.

11. Fighting with each other

As much as Singaporeans are kaypoh, we just want to get to our destination peacefully. We don’t want to see passengers fighting on the train. Most fights and heated arguments on public transport will probably be filmed by bystanders and go viral on TikTok in a day. No one will be walking away from this match a winner, except for the poster who scored thousands of likes and views of the brawl.

12. Doing personal grooming like cutting nails or flossing teeth

It’s called PUBLIC transport, for a reason. Do your personal grooming like flossing and nail cutting at home. Aside from the fact that it’s very unglamorous, germs and saliva also get deposited everywhere – machiam Songkran Festival.

Some might not agree with this, but makeup application on buses and trains should be done at home too. The potential for loose powder and eyeshadow particles to fly about and stain others’ clothing is just too high. So maybe wake up earlier and finish your makeup at home before heading to the office.

13. Refusing to make room for others

Unless you’re on the Train to Busan with zombies chasing you, make room for others and wait for your turn to board the bus and train. We’re also pointing fingers at those who refuse to move and let those on the inner seats alight, and those who leave their bags on the seats. Seats are for humans, not inanimate objects.

14. Saying “tsk” and expecting a seat

Image credit: Euan Cameron via Unsplash

Many of us have been taught to be courteous and to give up our seats to those in need, but some feel the need to say “tsk” and expect a seat. Just because we might be glued to our phone screens watching something more interesting than your passive-aggressive facial expressions doesn’t mean we won’t offer you our seat if you just ask nicely.

15. Playing their music or videos out loud

Newsflash – this isn’t Zouk or Marquee. Playing your music or videos out loud just isn’t the vibe for public transport, especially during the early hours before 8am. Use noise-cancelling headphones instead. To those who have extremely loud and obiang ringtones, please answer your phone within 3 rings. The jarring tunes give everyone a rude and unnecessary shock.

16. Prying open MRT doors

Image credit: Prahbu Isawaran via Unsplash

While some commuters may have missed the sign for not touching or leaning on the train doors, others go the extra mile to pry open the door of a moving train. Do you expect the train conductor to let you off in between Khatib and Yio Chu Kang? Your itchy fingers compromise the safety of other passengers. And if you miss the train, just take the next one – at most, it’s a 5-minute wait.

17. Leaving bodily substances all over the train

We get it, you took the train. You don’t have to leave proof that you were here. And by proof, we mean your bodily substances like sweat and hair oil. We’ve seen one too many grease stains on the transparent glass panels where people have rested their oily hair on. If you’ve accidentally left a mark, do everyone a favour and wipe it off with a wet tissue.

Special shoutout to those who pick their nose and ears: if you wipe your fingers on the seats, we’re calling the police on you.

18. Peeing or pooping

Compared to other countries, toilets are very accessible in Singapore. There is no excuse to pee by the escalator or poop on the train. They can be found in malls, and there are even some MRT toilets in the station. If you really cannot tahan, just remember these 2 steps: number 1: ask the staff at the passenger service counter, number 2: number 2.

Disgusting things people do on public transport

We’ve been blessed with great public transport in Singapore, no doubt. But whether we can say the same for the passengers, we’ll leave that unanswered. If you have friends or family who exhibit any of the abovementioned behaviours, send them this article as a subtle “please stop being a menace” hint.

11 April Fools’ Pranks By Brands In SG, From Singlish Cabin Crew to Fake Ariana Grande Performance

Khoo Yong Hao — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 03:00:10 +0000

April Fools’ campaigns by brands in Singapore

In case you’ve not noticed, March has already come and gone, so we’re subject to yet another day of April Fools’ practical jokes. However, even the most vigilant amongst us might have already fallen victim to harmless pranks making their rounds on social media, courtesy of deviously timed marketing campaigns.

We’ve rounded up our favourite April Fools’ pranks pulled by brands in Singapore from the past decade, ranging from tactful nods to the Little Red Dot, to plain obvious rage bait that work wonders in driving engagement. Marketing teams out there looking to rake in KPI points, take note.

2016 – Jetstar Asia

Singlish-trained aircrew

One of the hidden perks of flying with SIA as a Singaporean is being able to appreciate the cabin crew’s iconic “welcome home” message over the PA system upon touchdown in Singapore. However, what if we needn’t wait for the return flight back to the Little Red Dot to dispel our homesickness?

That was a question Jetstar Asia hoped to answer with their April Fools’ campaign in 2016, when they posted a promotional video showcasing their staff attending classes for a Singlistic Inclusion programme.

Image adapted from: Jetstar Asia via Facebook

The Jetstar Asia crew were trained to spruce up their vocab with Singlish phrases, while punctuating their in-flight safety instructions the occasional “ah” and “hor”. In this alternate timeline, they would advise passengers to have their seatbelts “kiap tight tight”, and to stow their “barang barang” under their seats.

Jetstar Asia even “translated” certain elements of their website into Singlish, such as the descriptions of extra services you could opt in for during your flights.
Image credit: Jetstar Asia

Although the Singlish-fication of Jetstar Asia was merely done in jest, there’s no need to remind us on home during our travels; we can already pick out our ear-grating accent in the crowds of Tokyo and Seoul from a mile away.

2017- IKEA

Revamped their iconic indoor playground for iPad-obsessed kids

Call it eerie, but IKEA hit the nail on the head when they cheekily called out the growing epidemic that is this generation of iPad kids all the way back in April Fools’ 2017. Much to the ire of parents islandwide, the Swedish furniture store updated their iconic Småland indoor playgrounds to better cater to the children of today.

Image credit: IKEA via Facebook

This revamp saw IKEA trading in Småland’s ball pits, slides, and colouring sheets for an arsenal of iPads and a couple of sitting pods for kids to indulge in some screentime, in isolation none the less. IKEA even gave reassurance to their parents that their kids will be in good hands, as their high speed WiFi connection meant that eyes will be glued to the screens at all times.

Image adapted from: IKEA via Facebook

The children could also opt at a communal table with other peers, but that hardly egged them on to interact with one another. But hey, at least they encouraged the little ones to practice good eye care habits by not having the screens too close to their eyes, so we can’t give this dystopian playspace too much flack.

2018 – Singapore Tourism Board

Durian-scented perfume

A scent that is inextricably tied with Singapore, other than that rancid commute stench that’s been of debate as of late, is the smell of durian. Which is why it was only fitting that the Singapore Tourism Board came up with the ingenious idea of concocting a durian perfume for April Fools’ 2018.

The nose behind the scent is a made-up perfumer called Dewey Anne, which oddly sounds a lot like durian.
Image adapted from: VisitSingapore via Facebook

Simply dubbed Durian, the scent was marketed as one fit for royalty, based on the durian’s status as the king of fruits. It’s supposedly made from 100% single origin durians by mashing up the pulp, which is then distilled into fine oils; a process which already sounds nauseating enough.

Even fans of the fruit must admit this is taking it too far, and thankfully, this is a product of fiction. We’ve already got morning shower skippers stinking up public transport, so we definitely don’t need another biohazard to avoid like the plague on our way to work.

2019 – NEX

Ariana Grande performing live in the mall

The year is 2019; an unassuming picture of an egg became the most liked post on IG, and hot girl summer was in full force; not that we needed a reminder here on sunny Singapore. Ari also dropped the bop that is thank u, next which was the only thing radio stations would play for a good while, but NEX had more Grande-r plans for April Fools’ 2019.

Peep the fine print under the terms and conditions.
Image credit: NEX Singapore via Facebook

Using clever wordplay, the NEX’s Facebook page drummed up excitement for an Ariana Grande live performance happening right at the shopping mall. The mall’s name coincidentally appears on her aforementioned hit single, and so she was reported to be scheduled for an impromptu show right in the heartlands of Serangoon.

Much to the dismay of fans, the singer obviously didn’t jet over to Singapore as the post was just a joke, but they seemed to take it well, sharing a laugh in the comments.

2020 – Tuk Tuk Cha

Coriander Thai Milk Tea

F&B brands have a penchant for coming up with the most egregious creations for April Fools’, and even the pandemic couldn’t stop Tuk Tuk Cha from flexing their creative muscles in 2020.

Image credit: Tuk Tuk Cha via Facebook

And so the Coriander Thai Milk Tea was conceived, and boy was the crowd divided. On one hand, some were borderline offended that this abomination of a drink even appeared on their feeds. However, there were quite a number of coriander lovers who were looking forward to quenching their thirst with Tuk Tuk Cha’s latest offering.

Unfortunately for them, the Facebook post promoting the drink was a hoax, as evident by the purported 1st April 2030 release date. If you think about it, we’re well into 2025, so it’s 5 years down and just 5 more to go if you’re still dreaming about the day you can taste-test this cloyingly aromatic beverage.

2021 – Burger King

Chocolate Whopper which was a real item on the menu

Image credit: Burger King Singapore

For an April Fools’ edible that you could’ve actually purchased off a menu, look no further than Burger King. The burger restaurant announced a secret burger leading up to April Fools’ in 2021, but no one could quite steel themselves for what was to come. The big day soon arrived, and we were presented with the Chocolate Whopper.

Image credit: Eatbook

Credit where it’s due, Burger King made this chocolatey treat a reality that customers could order and try for themselves, but the reviews weren’t as hot as their sizzling patties. Essentially a classic Whopper beef burger that was filled with chocolate sauce, people found it to be overwhelmingly sweet, and the chocolate sauce that soaked into the bun made eating it a soggy affair.

Image credit: Eatbook

Sweet tooths had no qualms about wolfing down on the burgers though, and to sweeten the deal, Burger King also had a chocolate dipping sauce you could order to go with your nuggets.

2022 – KFC

KFC-branded essence of chicken

We’re not sure about the efficacy of essence of chicken, but one thing’s for sure – it wasn’t palatable one bit, and most kids all over Singapore can attest to that. Heck, you’ve probably been force-fed the bitter-tasting supplement by your kiasu parents when you were cramming for your national exams; if only this KFC essence of chicken were around back then.

Image credit: KFC via Facebook

The Facebook post announcing the make-believe product went up on April Fools in 2022, and was even said to be releasing in both Original Recipe and Hot & Crispy fried chicken flavours.

One commenter even asked if this funky essence of chicken can help their son pass their PSLE exams, and another chimed in that it might make him pass out instead. If that isn’t an indicator for KFC to stay in their lane and stick to revving up those deep fryers, we don’t know what is.

2023 – YouTrip

New Causeway+ card for even more savings on JB trips

Crossing the border for a day trip in JB might as well be considered Singapore’s national sport at this point, and YouTrip concurs. In fact, they would’ve probably been the biggest cause of checkpoint jams if they made their Causeway+ card a reality during April Fools’ 2023.

Image credit: @youtripsg via Instagram

Their new card was slated to roll out by the end of the year, and was touted to be able to give users rebates on petrol and grocery shopping, along with other perks when you use it across the border. They also promised a whole year of free petrol to one lucky winner for those who signed up with a promo code, and we all know the lengths our fellow countrymen are willing to go to for even an extra drib of gas.

Image adapted from: @youtripsg via Instagram

Soon enough, the card was revealed to be just another April Fools’ marketing ploy, but some commenters did not take the joke lightly at all. Some even threatened to report the company to MAS for misleading their followers, while others refused to accept the post as a prank and still wanted to apply for the card regardless. Lesson learnt: do not, in any way possible, get in the way of a Singaporean and their JB getaways.

2024 – Durex

The most satisfying night run in SG

Durex is no stranger to wacky April Fools’ campaigns, and last year was no different. They egged couples to get active, by organising an adults-only night run and posing the question to attendees: “will you finish together?”

View this post on Instagram

The innuendos didn’t stop there, as the 2 categories that lovers could sign up for were 6km and 9km races, both of which were going to be held on the 6th of September, or 6/9.

Image credit: Durex

It was later revealed that there was no actual run to compete in, but at least a handful of people were left satisfied. That’s because the first 100 sign-ups were sent a Durex Race Pack, which included goodies like a race tee, a pack of Durex’s mutual climax condoms and the Durex Play Classic Lube for couples to conduct cardio sessions at their own leisure.

2025 – sen-ryo

Miniature sushi

Serving portions at fancy restaurants is often a topic of contention, as you’ll often see the most opulent establishments charging an arm and a leg for measly morsels of food. Of course, they make up for it in other aspects, such as ingredient quality, ambience and miscellaneous services, but that doesn’t make the dent on our wallets any less painful.

Image adapted from: sen-ryo

However, upscale sushi restaurant sen-ryo is looking to turn the tables on this exorbitant trope this April Fools’, by releasing a miniature sushi omakase and pricing it at just $41. The catch here is that their offerings are literally pint-sized, as they believe that their craft is all about precision and not size.

They’ll even provide a magnifying glass for you to revel at the dishes before popping them all in your mouth in one fell swoop. This one’s all but another prank, but I’m sure some of us wouldn’t mind spending a couple of bucks for the world’s fastest omakase experience. Perhaps busy corporate folks who can’t spare the time for lengthy lunches will find it particularly efficient.

2026 – Eventful

Underwater supermarket selling iconic snacks & drinks

View this post on Instagram

A surefire way to get your key message ingrained into your target audience’s cranium is to tap into good ol’ nostalgia, and so Eventful is surprising us with a blast to the past for April Fool’s 2026. They’re inviting all to come by Singapore’s first underwater supermarket, dubbed the Eventfool Supermarket.

Image adapted from: Reddit, Flickr

Although the use of AI to promote the fictional opening is questionable, we’ve got to give kudos for the concept. A supermarket stationed off the coast of Marina South that stocks iconic, discontinued drinks and snacks from yesteryear? Say less. Commenters were dying to get another swig of disappointment that comes with a can of Whatever or Anything, and the Craze Hottis cabinet is bound to draw a crowd.

According to the Instagram post, visitors can also expect to load up on old-school pasar malam snacks and try their hand at childhood games like Five Stones and Flag Erasers. They’ll also be giving a dying trade a new lease of life, as an ice cream uncle will be on-site to hand out icy-cool treats. Alas, a Singaporean can dream, but can we at least try to get FairPrice to have a crack at this?

Watch out for other April Fools’ pranks by brands in Singapore

Of course, we shouldn’t take these April Fools’ pranks played by brands in Singapore too seriously. They’re just trying to inject some light-hearted humour into our everyday lives, and we’ve got to give them kudos for trying to do so in a slew of witty ways.

For more humorous reads:

Cover image adapted from: VisitSingapore & IKEA via Facebook, Eatbook
Originally published on 1st April 2025. Last updated by Khoo Yong Hao on 1st April 2026.

The post 11 April Fools’ Pranks By Brands In SG, From Singlish Cabin Crew to Fake Ariana Grande Performance appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

11 Low-Cost Halloween Costumes You Can Dress Up As, From Labubus to Sister Hong

Gabrielle Sng — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 08:46:08 +0000

Low-cost Halloween costumes for 2025

Whether you like to plan months in advance or are one to DIY something last minute, it’s once again the time of the year for us to dress up and go around SCARING SOME KIDS getting spooky. Taking inspiration from what’s been trending in 2025 so far, here are some low-cost Halloween costumes that’ll win you some points for creativity:

Where can I buy Halloween costumes in SG?

Image credit: Pan-In-The-Box

There are many places to buy Halloween costumes in Singapore, though costume rentals are also another option if you can only foresee your outfit collecting dust after 31st October. Alternatively, you can snag them online from platforms like Shopee or Amazon when products in general go for cheap.

Some notable shops to check out include:

Costume ‘N’ Parties
Pan-In-The-Box
Customade Costume & Merchandise
Awesome Costumes

What are some easy Halloween costumes for spooky season in Singapore?

From Labubus to your favourite celebrity couple, we’ve compiled a list of last-minute Halloween costume ideas that are simple enough to put together for your upcoming office party.

1. Labubu

Image credit: @labubu.png via Instagram

Everyone’s going to want a piece of you this Halloween when you rock up as the must-have accessory for 2025: a Labubu doll. It’s pretty easy to pull off this look too, with just a brown fur coat and painting on pointed teeth on yourself. Follow this makeup tutorial if you’re having trouble:

@itsgigiboi

in my labubu era #labubu #labubumacarons #halloweenmakeup #beautyph

♬ original sound – POP MART

Throw on a pair of bunny ears and sketch on some serious eyebrows, and this Halloween costume is complete. You can even bling it up by being a 24-karat-gold edition.

2. Chilli crab

Image credit: Pinterest

The debate on what is Singapore’s national dish will rage on forever, but nobody can doubt that the chilli crab dish is in that conversation. If that is one of your favourite dishes too, feel free to pay homage to it by dressing the part. After all, you are what you eat.

3. Hawker uncle

Image adapted from: James Seah

Celebrate Halloween by celebrating the unsung heroes of our everyday life: hawkers. These folks wake up in the wee hours of the morning and toil all day to provide us with affordable yet yummy grub come makan time. This Halloween costume couldn’t get any simpler – just don a plain white singlet with a hand towel draped over your neck.

4. Phua Chu Kang & Rosie

Image credit: meWATCH

Hollywood might have couples like Ross and Rachel from Friends or Jim and Pam from The Office, but back home, we have Phua Chu Kang and Rosie. Jio your partner to dress up as the pair together.

The guy would have to suit up with yellow work boots, black pants, a white dress shirt and the all-important gold chain. The girl might have an easier time replicating Rosie’s aesthetic, with floral print shirts and bright coloured pants still being a staple in fashion today.

5. LTA Thoughtful Bunch

Screenshot from: LTA Singapore via YouTube

Chances are if you board the MRT you would have noticed at least one of the LTA Thoughtful Bunch members graciously reminding you of the proper etiquette. Their outfits are relatively easy to replicate for Halloween. For example, if you want to do Move-in Martin, just get a pair of brown pants and a green flannel shirt and you’re good to go. Bonus points if you wax your hair to make it extra authentic.

The gals can dress up as Stand-up Stacey, which is basically an all-purple fitspo outfit that wouldn’t look too out of place in a pilates studio or any gym in Singapore.

6. Squid Game

Image credit: Carousell Singapore

Squid Game may have just wrapped up its final season back a couple of months ago, but its pop-cultural impact will be remembered for many years to come, especially this year’s Halloween. From the iconic pink guards and green jackets to the finalists suits, anything you choose to wear will be instantly recognisable.

7. Cheating couple at Coldplay concert

Image adapted from: Pop Base via X

If there is anything good to have come out of this moment, it’s the memes. You’d think the CEO and Head of HR at Astronomer would have learnt from the Try Guys scandal from 2022. But alas, the iconic “gotcha” moment happened at the Coldplay concert and a new pop culture moment was born.

All you and your costume buddy need is a basic Polo T-shirt and a black tank top, and maybe a DIY concert wristband; bonus points if you still have your Xylobands from Coldplay’s 2024 tour in Singapore. It’s an easy, comfy fit for any setting – well, except the office Halloween party.

8. KPop Demon Hunters

Huntr/x and Saja Boys during Soda Pop.
Image adapted from: Sony Pictures Animations via YouTube

Of course, we have to talk about Netflix’s most-watched show ever, KPop Demon Hunters. Many, many outfits from this show can be staple Halloween costumes, mainly their iconic performance fits. Rumi’s yellow jacket in How It’s Done is absolutely iconic.

But, for those ballin’ on a budget, there are much simpler outfits to replicate. Think back to Soda Pop – both Huntr/x and Saja Boys were in street clothes. Scavenge through your wardrobe for any casual items in pastel colours, like Rumi’s pink sweater or Zoey’s yellow bucket hat and you can easily recreate these looks.

Rumi and Jinu during “Free”.
Screenshot from: Netflix Family via YouTube

There’s even an easy couple costume you could do from the #Rujinu duet, Free. Literally just sweaters, jeans, sneakers, and a jacket for Jinu. For those who are sticklers for detail, just add a white turtleneck to your Rumi costume – a staple for her character throughout the movie. Maybe a mic too, so people don’t think you’re out and about for any other day.

9. Sister Hong

Screenshot from: @sister.hongchinese via TikTok

If you were chronically online around July 2025, you would have heard of Sister Hong – AKA Uncle Red. The criminal-turned-meme has gone viral across the internet with many posting Sister Hong makeup tutorials and making funny TikTok POVs.

The best part of this Halloween costume is that it’s easy to pull off in a pinch – all you need is foundation way too light for your skin tone and the brightest red lipstick you can find. Throw on a black sweater and a brown maxi skirt on top of that and you’re good to go. If you want, add on the cheapest wig with bangs you can find to really sell the look.

10. Lady Gaga’s Abracadabra music video

Screenshot from: Lady Gaga via Youtube

Calling all the Monsters – y’all remember how many fellow Monsters really pulled up to Lady Gaga’s 4-day concert in the most stunning looks. This Halloween, it’s your turn to pull up in a look to honour Mother’s iconic comeback.

The Abracadabra music video alone is full of stunning references for outfits. The dancers and Gaga herself are dressed to the nines and you can too. All you need to stick to is the all-red or all-white aesthetic. Other details to incorporate are leather, flowy skirts, and an overall campy vibe.

Every outfit in the video is unique so just think out of the box and you’ll achieve this look with ease.

11. Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce

Image credit: @taylorswift via Instagram

Love it or hate it, The Life of A Showgirl is an absolute hit at the moment, particularly for the flapper girl, Marilyn-esque concept shoot. But, those costumes for this range from fake and tacky to highly time-consuming to make from scratch.

If you’re a Swiftie who’s looking to rep your queen, just look at the IT couple of the moment. Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s engagement announcement went uber viral – becoming the most liked IG post ever – so if done right, no one’s gonna miss the reference.

Ladies just need a black and white strapless dress and brown platform heels. The gents can pull up in a nice navy blue polo, white shorts, and loafers. Boom – couple’s costume.

Up your game this Halloween

With Halloween just days away, get ready to wow everyone with your local-inspired outfits. Whether you have all the items at home or need to dash down to the nearby Mama shop to top up some materials, start making these affordable and fashionable costumes ASAP.

Even if social gathering restrictions don’t change by Halloween, at least we’ll look fashionably unique while stuck in a 2-pax group. After all, self-confidence is key.

For other spooky reads, check out:

Cover image adapted from: @labubu.png via Instagram, meWATCH, Sony Pictures Animations via YouTube
Article originally published on 22nd October 2021. Last updated by Muhammad Syahiran and ‘Arifah Malik on 17th October 2025.

The post 11 Low-Cost Halloween Costumes You Can Dress Up As, From Labubus to Sister Hong appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

7 Alice In Borderland Season 3 Math & Trivia Questions, Including How To Solve The Birthday Problem

Aditi Kashyap — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 02:00:46 +0000

Solutions to Alice in Borderland 3 questions

If you’ve already binged through Netflix’s Alice in Borderland season 3, you’re probably wondering if you could solve the math problems and trivia questions that were thrown into game 2, Sacred Fortunes.

Whether you were screaming at your screen trying to solve the equations faster than Arisu, or just sitting there like, “Yup, I’d be dead by question one,” this season gave us plenty of moments that triggered flashbacks to dreaded PSLE maths questions. Here are the solutions to 7 of those questions featured in the show.

Disclaimer: Spoilers ahead – and possibly memories of good ol’ secondary school days.

1. Sacred Fortunes’ arithmetic problem

Solve the equation: 12-(-3) x {1/4 ÷ [-1/2]2}

For math nerds, this one’s probably one of the easier arithmetic equations to solve among the other math problems featured in the show. For the rest of us, it might have brought back haunting memories of teachers hounding us to show each step of our calculations to see how we got the final answer.

Image credit: John Huang via Facebook

Let’s break it down step by step, following the PEMDAS/BODMAS rules:

Step 1: Solve the exponent inside the innermost bracket

[-½]2= (-½) x (-½) = ¼

Step 2: Solve the division inside the curly brackets

¼ ÷ ¼ = 1

Step 3: Perform the multiplication

(-3) x 1 = -3

Step 4: Perform the subtraction

12-(-3) = 12+3 = 15

Answer: 15

2. The Birthday Problem

How many people need to gather for the probability of 2 sharing a birthday to exceed 50%?

Sharing the limelight with another person on your special day is bad enough. Now, to have to think about a math problem on the probability of that happening is another headache we don’t want to take on. So, while we dig into a giant matcha cake, we let AI solve the birthday problem for us.

Before we get to the right answer, the options given on the show were:

What would you have guessed, given that there are 365 days a year?

Image credit: Eatbook

Let’s assume the probability that no 2 people share a birthday is event A. Subtracting that from a 100% chance will give us the probability of the opposite event – i.e. at least 2 do share a birthday. Then:

PA (at least one shared birthday) = 1−PA (no shared birthdays)

Let D = 365 days in a year and n = number of people in the group.

Person 1’s birthday is on any day of the year, so:

P1 = 365/365 = 1

Person 2’s birthday has to be on any of the other 364 days left, so:

P2 = 365-1/365 = 364/365

Person 3’s birthday has to be on the other 363 days left so as not to overlap, and so on. This means that Person n must not share a birthday with any of the previous people before them, i.e. n-1 people. And there are 365 – (n-1) remaining days.

Pn = 365 – (n-1)/365

Now, the probability that all the people in this group of n number of people don’t share a birthday is the product of all their individual probabilities:

PA = P1 x P2 x P3 x … x Pn

PA = 365/365 x 364/365 x 363/365 x … x 365 – (n-1)/365

PA = P(365, n) / 365n = 365! / (365-n)! · 365n

For PA to be < 0.5, the smallest integer is n=23.

For those who simply can’t math, the player in the show guessed 78, which was kind of the middle ground. Knowing the penalty, in all honesty, that wasn’t the worst strategy; if you’ve been failing math your whole life, it helps you minimise expected flaming arrows coming your way.

Having said that, you should probably get your teammates to find a good hiding spot while you lock in your answer… instead of standing around in an open firing zone thinking you’ve got it right.

Answer: 23

3. Roman numerals

The Roman numeral I is 1, V is 5, and X is 10. What does L equal?

If you’re an ordinary human being like most of us common folks, chances are you only know the first few Roman numerals like those that feature on a clock. Most of us would be stumped by what L could be, given that we are more familiar with the Hindu-Arabic numeral system largely used today.

Image credit: Nanzui Palomino via Pexels

Well, here’s a new fun fact to add to your general knowledge:

Roman numeral	Value
I	1
V	5
X	10
L	50
C	100
D	500
M	1,000

Answer: 50

4. World population

What is the current total population of planet Earth?

@dnl.jy

AIB S3: Sacred Fortune (Tenth Draw) this scene had my anxiety totally fvcked up #aliceinborderland #aibseason3 #fyp #series

♬ original sound – kemperflyy – kemperflyy

While not exactly a math problem, perhaps the world population question relies on some general knowledge and making an educated guess. According to the United Nations estimates, the current population is about 8.2 billion people. The real numbers are already 200 million more than the show’s correct answer, which was shown as 8 billion.

Answer: 8.232 billion

5. Cow’s blood & milk

Milk is made from nutrients in a cow’s blood. How many litres of blood are needed to make 1 litre of milk?

Less of a math problem and perhaps more of a scientific one, this question on a cow’s blood and milk will probably surprise you with the answer.

Image credit: Hyeong via Facebook

Who would have thought that that much blood is needed to produce just 1 litre of milk?

Answer: 450 litres

6. Blood flow

How long does it take for blood pumped from the heart to make one round trip around the human body?

You might think this one is common sense, but it could get a little tricky. The options given were:

5 seconds
30 seconds
80 seconds

Screenshot from: The Smart Local via YouTube

By process of elimination, 5 seconds would be a little ridiculous – we’re still human after all. That leaves 30 seconds and 80 seconds, both of which seem fairly plausible.

Now, if you think logically about why blood circulates, you might recall its function of supplying oxygen to all the cells in the body. That’s a really important job, so it wouldn’t be wrong to come to the conclusion that it would need to be done quickly for major organs to keep working. Therefore, choosing half a minute seems the most reasonable.

Answer: 30 seconds

7. Lion number

50 zoo animals are flipped over sequentially. What was the lion’s number in the sequence?

Trick question? Riddle? We can’t decide. This is probably one of the sillier questions of the bunch and requires some visualisation plus creativity to get to the answer.

The anticlimactic solution is: LION flipped upside down is NO17.

Answer: 17

Alice in Borderland season 3 questions that had us stumped

After seeing Arisu and Usagi blaze through those problems, it’s safe to say that Alice in Borderland season 3 wasn’t just survival of the fittest; it was survival of the nerdiest. Honestly, props to anyone who managed to pause Netflix and actually solve one before the characters did. The rest of us were too busy praying the “game master” wouldn’t start asking for our working.

If there’s ever a Season 4, we can only hope the next batch of challenges involves something less mentally traumatic. Until then, we’ll be brushing up on our math and trivia knowledge, just in case we ever wake up in a Shibuya full of laser beams.

Watch Alice in Borderland on Netflix

10 Annoying Things People Keep Doing At Concerts That Need To End For Everyone’s Sanity

Nathan Koh — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 04:04:17 +0000

Concert etiquette you need to know

It’s already October, but the 2025 concert lineup isn’t slowing down just yet – we’ve still got big names like Twice, bbno$, and Doja Cat hitting our shores before the exciting lineup of shows in 2026. And while everyone is hyped for bangers and fan chants, there’s also the other side of concerts: the annoying people who clearly skipped the memo on concert etiquette. Imagine having monthly concerts to look forward to like clockwork, but not knowing how to behave.

That’s why we’ve gathered the top pet peeves of fellow concertgoers, so you don’t end up public enemy #1.

1. Screaming songs

Image for illustrative purposes only.
Image credit: @eng.ngee via Instagram

Singing along to your favourite songs is like live karaoke, but some fans need to stop screaming songs. If you’re trying to get your favourite artist’s attention, spoiler alert – they can’t hear you. But I will, when I’m rewatching my shaky fancam at 2am. Also, nobody nails the high notes when they’re screaming. So keep the unwarranted loud singing in the showers, and let the rest of us actually hear the people we paid hundreds to see.

2. Talking during concerts

Image for illustrative purposes only.
Image credit: Jay Wennington via Unsplash

The occasional “I love this song” or “can you pass me my bottle” is acceptable, but keep the talks during concerts to a minimum, please. Every concertgoer paid to hear the artist sing, not to sit through your impromptu TED Talk. So if I can hear you explaining the backstory of why Taylor Swift wrote Marjorie, you’re speaking too loudly. Have a post-concert discussion with your friends instead.

3. Standing even though you bought a seated ticket

Image for illustrative purposes only.
Image credit: @yixuansitu via Instagram

Standing when you bought a seated ticket is what we’d call a “grey area” in concert etiquette. Some think you should be sitting, while others believe that you’re entitled to stand up and dance. A simple rule of thumb: read the room, or in this case, your section. If you’re attending an orchestra concert at the Esplanade, maybe don’t be the only one grooving in the aisle, but if you’re at a rock concert, don’t be mad if the person beside you stands up and starts headbanging.

4. Blocking others with your fan boards

Image for illustrative purposes only.
Image credit: @sinji211 via Instagram

Fan boards are the best way to show your appreciation to the performer and, hopefully, get their attention. But don’t be the fan who holds up the board for the entire concert and blocks other concertgoers, unless you want to get into an argument with the person behind you. Do note that if you’re attending a show at the National or Indoor Stadium, your fan boards can’t be larger than an A3 board.

5. Not being spatially aware

Image for illustrative purposes only.
Image credit: @eng.ngee via Instagram

If you bought standing pen tickets and can’t wait to dance, remember to be mindful of concert etiquette and spare a thought for the people around you by being spatially aware. No one wants their toes turned into a human speed bump or their face politely elbowed during Sorry, Sorry by Super Junior next year. While accidents can happen, don’t forget to apologise and make sure they’re okay before enjoying the rest of the concert.

6. Shouting random stuff during fanchants

Image for illustrative purposes only.
Image credit: Jihao Tan via Unsplash

Fanchants are engaging call-and-response interactions that get the whole audience hyped at K-pop concerts. If it’s your first time and you don’t know the chants, no worries – just sit back and enjoy the show. But please, don’t be the one shouting random stuff during fanchants while everyone else is perfectly in sync. You’ll just end up being the human equivalent of a wrong note in a perfectly rehearsed song, and nobody wants that.

7. Getting caught cheating on your partner

Image for illustrative purposes only.
Image credit: Frank Huang via Unsplash

You shouldn’t even be cheating on your significant other in the first place, but if you are, for the love of music, don’t get caught at a concert. Singapore is small, so don’t be surprised if news spreads quickly and you find yourself trending on TikTok and news sites. On the bright side, at least it will be a concert experience you’ll never forget.

8. Not dressing up

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A post shared by ZULA (@zulasg)

Dressing up for a concert is half the fun – TBH, it beats wearing your usual Uniqlo Airism t-shirts any other day. To slay in Singapore’s humid weather, focus on comfort – breathable outfits and comfy shoes are good options, especially if you’re planning to stand for the entire show. And skip the big ball gowns if you’re stuck sitting all the way at the back of section CAT 10.

9. Not wearing perfume or deodorant

Image for illustrative purposes only.
Image credit: Tijs van Leur via Unsplash

Not every outfit is made to survive the Singapore heat, and if you sweat easily, your section might get a whiff of something extra. The moment you throw your hands in the air, the stinky sour stench will reach the noses of the people around you. It can definitely be avoided, so for the love of everyone around you, wear perfume or deodorant.

10. Recording the entire show

Image for illustrative purposes only.
Image credit: Lobar Qudratovna via Unsplash

While we’re all for living in the moment, if you’re going to film the concert, keep it short and sweet – quickly film a video during your favourite song and put the phone away. Because what’s the point of recording the entire show and watching the concert through your phone when you’ve paid good money to be there? Enjoy the live vibes, scream with fellow fans, and soak it all in IRL.

Take note of concert etiquette for a fun experience

We’re lucky enough to be getting a ton of concerts in Singapore, so whether you paid $89 or $599 to watch your favourite artists perform, don’t be the one to ruin the experience for others.

For more concert reads:

Cover image adapted from: Lobar Qudratovna via Unsplash, @sinji211 via Instagram

The post 10 Annoying Things People Keep Doing At Concerts That Need To End For Everyone’s Sanity appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

We Matched The Squid Game 3 Characters To Typical Singaporeans We’re All Too Familiar With

Wei Yin — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 02:07:15 +0000

Squid Game 3 characters as typical Singaporeans

Unless you’ve been living under a rock or in the Pink Soldiers’ dorm, you’d know that Squid Game 3 has finally dropped. While binge-watching the latest season, we couldn’t help but notice something oddly familiar about the characters. Nope, not because we’ve been in a death game ourselves, but because these personalities are basically the people we see every day in Singapore.

So, in the name of fun, we’ve matched the Squid Game 3 characters to common Singaporean archetypes. You may or may not see yourself on this list – don’t say we never warn you.

Note: spoilers ahead – proceed only if you’re okay with them.

1. Gi-hun / Player 456

The taxi uncle with a past

Image credit: @netflixkr via Instagram

You’ve probably sat in his cab before. The radio’s playing old school hits, he’s humming along, and halfway through the ride, he starts sharing life advice you didn’t ask for. All you wanted was to stare out the window and doomscroll in peace, but now you’re lowkey invested in his life story that sounds like it belongs in a Channel 8 drama.

He most probably started a business with a friend when he was younger, only for it to fail. His wife left him not long after, and he was left to pick up the pieces for his children, who now barely talk to him. He gambled a bit, maybe more than a bit, just to feel like he still had some control over his life.

And just like Gi-hun (Player 456), all he had left was guilt and a long list of regrets. But also like Gi-hun, he’s trying – he still sends his children angbao money during CNY, just like how Gi-hun promised to protect Jun-hee’s (Player 222) newborn with his life.

He might not ever strike it big. No flashy job, no fancy condo. But he has a heart, and in this world, sometimes that’s all you need to keep going.

2. Myung-gi / Player 333

The failed start-up founder

Image credit: @netflix via Instagram

He was once “the next big thing” who raised funds from family and friends, promising a platform that would “change how Singaporeans invest”. But as with a lot of startups, hype outran reality. His personal life took a hit too, and he’s now trying to keep his head above water, paying off debts and rebuilding his reputation.

The baby Myung-gi (Player 333) had with Jun-hee in Squid Game 3 seemed like the symbol of a fresh start at first, but felt more like life handed him a boss fight he wasn’t emotionally equipped for.

Like Myung-gi, this guy’s in his flop era. He has lost the plot, the girl, and maybe even himself along the way – but there’s still that delulu part of him that believes he can turn things around.

Maybe, just maybe, he might need to ask himself if it’s time to walk away.

3. Dae-ho / Player 388

The guy who’s “all talk, no action”

Image credit: @netflix via Instagram

Every squad has that one friend who’s always hyping things up and acting like he’s got it together. He has opinions on everything and swears he would’ve handled things better if it were him. Dae-ho (Player 388) is basically him, personified.

As much as it’s annoying, you know he’s not a bad person. He probably means well and wants to be the brave one, until reality hits and he quietly melts into the background. Suddenly it’s “Eh, I got something on”. Sure you do, bro.

Still, you keep him around – he’s good for laughs, has zero malice, and TBH – most of us are just like him. All bark, no bite, but trying our best to keep up in a world that’s a little too much sometimes.

4. Hyun-ju / Player 120

The ah ma who always puts you first

Image credit: @netflixkr via Instagram

She’s the one who secretly slips you $10 when your parents aren’t looking. The one who says “Aiya, next time can try again lah” while hiding your report card behind a stack of newspapers.

You don’t live with her anymore, but somehow her house feels more like home than your own. The MILO tin is always full, your favourite snack is magically restocked, and there’s always hot porridge waiting if you so much as sneeze.

Similar to Hyun-ju (Player 120) in Squid Game 3, who instinctively stepped up to care for the elderly Geum-ja and pregnant Jun-hee, grandma is the quiet protector. When things go wrong, she’s the first to step in.

She hustled hard in her younger days and worked long hours to raise her kids, who now forget to reply in the family group chat. But she doesn’t hold it against anyone, because that’s who she is – the glue that holds everyone together, even when no one notices.

5. Yong-sik / Player 007

The black sheep child

Image credit: @netflixkr via Instagram

He’s the one who was always compared to his siblings growing up. Heard things like “Why can’t you be more like your brother?” or “Stop making your mother worry leh” on loop until it became background noise.

In Squid Game 3, Yong-sik (Player 007) is spiralling – not just from debt, but from the weight of constantly disappointing everyone, especially his mother. But under all the recklessness, we see something else: hesitation. In the hide-and-seek game, when he’s told to kill someone on the blue team to survive, he falters.

Yong-sik doesn’t have it in him to become fully cruel. His attack on Jun-hee wasn’t pure malice – it was panic, a last-ditch attempt to not go down first. And in a cruel twist, it’s his mother who has to stop him.

It’s a feeling a lot of black sheep kids know too well: trying to do better but never fast enough, never good enough.

6. Geum-ja / Player 149

The nosy office auntie

Image adapted from: @squidgamenetflix via Instagram

You know exactly who we’re talking about here. Before you can even say “hello,” she’s already sussed out that you went on leave for a breakup and not Bali. She knows who just got engaged, who got ghosted, and who’s “sick” but actually went for a job interview. She’ll also ask you personal questions and leave you mildly traumatised in the pantry.

For all her kaypoh energy, we know this auntie means well. Like Geum-ja (Player 149), she’s the mother hen of the workplace. She entered the game to save her son, Yong-sik, but somehow ended up fussing over everyone else too. Classic.

In the office, she’s the unofficial HR, life coach, and pantry surveillance unit rolled into one. Ask her where the scissors are, and somehow you’ll end up telling her your whole dating history. She might overshare and occasionally trauma-dump, but she’ll also force herbal tea on you when you look tired, text you home remedies when you’re sick, and sneak you the good snacks from her drawer.

7. Jun-hee / Player 222

The XMM you underestimated

Image credit: @netflixkr via Instagram

She’s the one you once called “blur” or “soft-spoken” during orientation camp – until life smacked her hard and she came out tougher than anyone expected. Like Jun-hee (Player 222), she trusted the wrong person, and now she’s the one picking up the pieces. Broke, pregnant, and just trying to survive – but you won’t catch her asking for pity.

Don’t be fooled by the XMM vibes. Behind the cute eyeliner and quiet voice is someone who’s juggling 3 part-time jobs, settling bills her family doesn’t know about, and showing up every day like she’s got nothing to hide.

You might have written her off at first. But when things go south, she’s the one holding it all together with more heart than most people twice her age.

8. Seon-nyeo / Player 044

The superstitious aunt

Image credit: @netflix via Instagram

She’s the reason you don’t dare sweep the floor during CNY or cut your nails at night because “Later attract bad luck how?” Okay, can.

Every morning at 6am sharp, she sends you the same image: a glittery sunrise with “Have a positive & prosperous day”. It’s followed by different links warning you not to take durian with alcohol.

Like Seon-nyeo (Player 044) in Squid Game 3, she’s intense. But unlike Seon-nyeo, her worst crime is flooding the family group chat with her superstitions and badly compressed good-luck memes.

9. Min-su / Player 125

The quiet nice guy who gets pushed around

Image credit: @netflix via Instagram

You’ve definitely worked with someone like him – the soft-spoken guy who says “can lah” even when his plate is overflowing. He gets cut off mid-sentence in meetings, volunteers to stay back when no one else will, and somehow always ends up with the short end of the stick.

Min-su (Player 125) joined Squid Game not out of greed. He got scammed in a dodgy rental deal and was just trying to get his life back together. But as the games progress and he sees the ones who cheated him still walking free, that quiet rage inside him starts to boil.

Still, he hesitates and overthinks – pretty much like the classic Singaporean who’s been taught to follow rules all his life. And maybe he doesn’t win and never learns to be cutthroat. But he walks away with his conscience intact, and if you ask us, that’s the bigger flex.

10. Nam-gyu / Player 124

The wannabe ah beng

Image credit: @netflixkr via Instagram

He’s not the real ah beng – just the one who hangs around them, laughs too loudly at their jokes, and throws shade at the quiet kid to earn brownie points. Just like Nam-gyu (Player 124), he learnt early that if you can’t be the boss, it’s best to leech off one.

And when the bigger dog leaves the room, like when Thanos gets eliminated, suddenly, he’s the loudest. It’s honestly giving backup dancer who thinks he’s the main act now.

Everyone else can tell he’s trying too hard. His so-called “confidence” is paper-thin, and deep down, he’s still that insecure guy who just wants to be liked. While you may roll your eyes at him, somewhere in that cringe is a tiny bit of pity – because maybe if someone had seen him earlier, he wouldn’t have tried so hard to be someone else.

11. The Front Man

The toxic boss

Image adapted from: @squidgamenetflix via Instagram

Ever had a boss who smiles during meetings and casually says, “Don’t worry, this is a safe space,” but the moment you speak up, suddenly you’re not on the next project? That’s The Front Man energy and a tell-tale sign of a toxic workplace right there.

He’s not the loud, table-slamming kind of boss, but the type who plays mind games. Once upon a time, he was one of us – hustling, struggling, and eating cai fan with 1 meat 2 veg. But now that he’s made it to the top, he’s forgotten what it was like to be on the losing side.

And while you might daydream about calling him out in front of everyone, the real win is making sure you never become that kind of leader.

12. Jun-ho

The friend who’s always lost

Image credit: @netflixkr via Instagram

You know the friend who’s always losing his keys, missing the MRT stop, or showing up late because he forgot where he was going? That’s just like Jun-ho, the well-meaning blur sotong.

Like Dora the Explorer but without the map, he’s forever searching for answers, directions, or just a clue on what’s going on. Sometimes he throws a wrench in your plans – not on purpose, just because he’s genuinely lost in his own world.

You can’t stay mad at him, though. I mean, just look at that face.

13. No-eul / Guard 011

The working mum

Image credit: @netflixkr via Instagram

Many working mums like No-eul (Guard 011) aren’t out here chasing dreams – they’re just trying to keep the household, their career, and their sanity from collapsing all at once. Her idea of “me time” is probably eating biscuits in the toilet while hiding from her kids.

People might think she’s cold or distant, but they don’t see her overcoming silent battles at work and at home, and still showing up for both.

In Squid Game 3, No-eul does whatever she can to help Gyeong-seok (Player 246) reunite with his daughter, because mums get it. To be fair, she could probably run the Squid Game better than The Front Man, but she’s too busy sorting her kid’s tuition schedule and defrosting chicken for dinner.

Which Squid Game 3 character do you relate to?

Image credit: @squidgamenetflix via Instagram

The Squid Game series might be over, but the characters – and their very human struggles – aren’t going anywhere. So, which one made you feel a little too seen? No shame – we’re all just trying to survive life’s daily elimination rounds.

8 Funny & Unexpected Stories Behind MRT Station Names You’ve Probably Never Questioned

Shannon Chow — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 03:29:56 +0000

Funny MRT station names in Singapore

Ah, the MRT. For years, Singaporeans have sustained their love-hate relationship with the Mass Rapid Transport system. Whether it’s skipping out on a Chagee grand opening to attend the unveiling of a new station, or hopping onto social media to complain about the latest breakdown, the MRT is undeniably a major part of our lives.

But beyond the rush-hour crowds and that really long announcement jingle, have you ever stopped to wonder why our MRT names are what they are? Here are some funny MRT names in Singapore and their origins.

1. Punggol MRT

Hurling sticks at fruit trees

Image credit: National Parks

At first glance, the origin of Punggol may leave you a little confused. It actually comes from the Malay word “punggur”, which refers to dead wood, or my personal favourite, the act of “hurling sticks at fruit trees” to knock down their fruit.

Sounds a little quirky when fitted into the context of modern-day Punggol. Although, to be fair, travelling from Pasir Ris to Punggol by MRT makes me want to hurl sticks at fruit trees too.

Another tale behind Punggol’s name points to its founder, Wak Sumang, who started Kampung Wak Sumang, one of the oldest fishing villages in Singapore. Legend has it that a punggur landed smack on his house, which inspired the village’s name.

2. Bedok MRT

Large drum

Image credit: Housing & Development Board

Bedok drum kinda has a ring to it, or should it just be drum? The word “Bedok” likely originates from the Malay word “bedoh”, which refers to a large wooden drum used in traditional Malay culture.

The instrument was used back in the olden days before loudspeakers were a thing – mosques would use the drum to signal prayer times to the Muslim community.

So instead of that overused joke about your heart going Bedok Bedok, maybe it should be Be-dok tss instead – sorry I tried.

3. Paya Lebar MRT & Toa Payoh MRT

Wide swamp & big swamp

Image credit: Lea Zaleha (Ninja Six5) via Google Maps

Turns out, Paya Lebar and Toa Payoh have more in common than we thought. Originating from Malay words, “paya” and “lebar” mean “swamp” and “wide” respectively. Back in 1828, the area was home to plantation estates and sat near the Kallang River, so the name checks out.

Toa Payoh sees a mix of 2 languages, Hokkien and Malay, where “Toa” in Hokkien means “big” and “Payoh” is derived from the Malay word “paya” – thus the excellent name “Big Swamp”. Makes sense since maps produced in the 1800s show the area as a swamp land.

Now, Paya Lebar and Toa Payoh residents can unironically yell at relatives to “Get out of my swamp” as they bid their farewells after family dinners – fun!

4. one-north MRT

1 degree north of the Equator

Image credit: banana siong via Google Maps

one-north definitely sticks out like a sore thumb among the other MRT names, but it’s actually a reference to Singapore being 1 degree north of the equator – you can thank the universe for all that lovely heat and humidity.

There’s no official statement on why the MRT naming committee decided to pepper in that random scientific fact on our station map. However, rumour has it that it’s meant to mirror the techy landscape of one-north, which is home to other futuristic-sounding names like Mediapolis, Fusionopolis, and Biopolis.

Fun fact: it’s the only MRT station name that starts with a small-case – perhaps to make it look a little cooler, but my guess is as good as yours.

5. Pending LRT

Belt buckle

Image credit: Carl Gruenenfelder via Google Maps

Apologies to my LRT line friends, I hadn’t even heard of Pending until writing this article. It has to be at least a little funny when you hear the train announcement go, “Next stop, Pending” – like the whole station’s still buffering.

Image credit: Imgflip

Funnier still, it’s not the only part of our rail system that sounds like it’s still in progress. There are actually a couple of MRT plans that never made it to the tracks, including an MRT station that was supposed to take you straight to Coney Island.

Just like many other MRT stations, “Pending” is a Malay word that translates to “belt buckle”. Unfortunately, not much is said about why it’s actually called Pending, other than it being built along Pending Road.

If anything, it sounds like something out of an Enid Blyton book, “I have to head back to Belt Buckle lane for supper” – could be fun to type out when entering your address into the Grab app.

6. Bukit Batok MRT

Coconut Hill or Coughing Hill

Image credit: Govintharasu Kannadhasan via Google Maps

I present to you 2 versions of Bukit Batok MRT’s origin.

The first is derived from Malay, where “bukit” means hill, and “batok” means cough. A possible explanation could be the cold air in the area that caused coughs. My preferred one is the blasting of granite quarries in the area back then, which sounded as though the hills were coughing, resulting in the name “Coughing Hill”.

Creativity: 7/10
Whimsy: 5/10

The second is half derived from Javanese, where “batok” means coconut, probably a shoutout to the coconut trees that used to grow in the area – hence the name “Coconut Hill”. Sounds like some version of a Mario Kart race track, and with the neighbourhood being home to the ComfortDelGro Driving Centre, I guess it isn’t too far off the mark.

Creativity: 6/10
Whimsy: 7/10

7. Bras Basah MRT

Wet rice

Image credit: yuddi w via Google Maps

Bras Basah might sound atas today, but it takes the cake for being one of the more unfortunate ones on this list. It can be traced to the Malay words “beras basah”, which means “wet rice”, and suddenly I’m getting flashbacks of soggy leftovers clogging the sink after washing up.

The name could also be a possible reference to Sungei Brass Bassa, where rice was dried on its banks and inevitably made wet again by the rising tides.

– Bonus –

8. Sentosa

Tranquillity

Image credit: Yen-1972 via Google Maps

Technically, Sentosa isn’t an MRT station, but it does have a monorail, so it counts in our books.

Sentosa, also known as “tranquillity” in Malay, was chosen by the then Singapore Tourist Promotion Board to reflect its status as a transformed tourist attraction, bringing to mind white sandy beaches and peaceful sunsets.

But we think its original name does it more justice. Formerly known as “Pulau Blakang Mati” by the locals, which means “the island behind which lies death” in Malay, it was speculated to be a reference to piracy that ran rampant around the island back in the day.

Other petty gripes about MRT stations in Singapore

This section isn’t so much a commentary on funny MRT station names, more so my petty grievances about MRT names and associated malls that don’t make sense. Here’s to hoping you share my sentiments.

City Hall MRT & Raffles City

Image credit: Hao via Google Maps

I spent the majority of my childhood mistaking Raffles Place for Raffles City, then City Hall for Raffles City, only to find out that there is no such thing as a City Hall mall or a Raffles Place mall. If that sentence confuses you, you’re not alone.

Turns out, the mall, Raffles City, sits above City Hall MRT, while Raffles Place MRT is located a good 6-minute drive away. It took me way too long to figure that out.

Marina Bay MRT & Marina One

Image credit: Marina Bay Sands Singapore via Google Maps

Here’s another puzzle: instead of leading to Marina Bay Sands, Marina Bay MRT actually takes you to Marina One. Granted, they both have “Marina” in their names, but chances are some poor unsuspecting tourist will have to walk the brutal 18 minutes to reach MBS after alighting at Marina Bay MRT – talk about a tourist trap.

Esplanade MRT & Suntec

Image credit: Alan Chew via Google Maps

Another tourist attraction that should be made more transport-logical is the Esplanade.

A no-brainer would be to alight at Esplanade MRT station to get to the Esplanade. That’s where you’re wrong, the station instead leads you to Suntec, or for some exits, South Beach – both of which take around 10 minutes to reach the Esplanade.

Beauty World MRT

Image credit: Capture Asia Photography via Google Maps

Sitting above Beauty World MRT is the ultimate gathering of plazas and centres: Beauty World Plaza, Beauty World Centre, Bukit Timah Shopping Centre, and Bukit Timah Plaza. I don’t know about you, but that just sounds like a misunderstanding waiting to happen.

I’ve mixed up Bukit Timah Centre and Beauty World Centre more times than I can count – it’s probably a me problem at this point, but it doesn’t mean I can’t be frustrated about it.

Were you surprised by the origin of some of these funny MRT names in Singapore?

Our MRT station names may seem pretty ordinary, but they actually give a fascinating look into Singapore’s history. So the next time you’re taking the MRT to get from Big Swamp to Wide Swamp, sit and reflect on the wonderful names of our MRT stations instead of just plugging in those earbuds.

More interesting things about Singapore’s MRT:

Cover image adapted from: National Parks, Lea Zaleha (Ninja Six5) via Google Maps

The post 8 Funny & Unexpected Stories Behind MRT Station Names You’ve Probably Never Questioned appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

8 Worst Father’s Day Gift Ideas & What You Should Get Him Instead

Ezekiel Sen — Sat, 14 Jun 2025 01:45:14 +0000

Worst Father’s Day gift ideas

If you’re wondering what the tingly forgetful feeling you’re getting this June, we’ll remind you. Aside from holidays and vacations, this month also brings Father’s Day! Yes, you can thank us for saving you.

We’ll do you another by telling you some of the worst Father’s Day gift ideas to steer clear of so that you don’t get him the wrong team’s jersey, and what you can get him instead.

1. Expensive bath products

Image credit: reneereneee via Pexels

You’re telling me, you plan on getting the one person who bulk buys soap a bunch of spendy potions and lotions? It won’t matter whether these expensive bath products are anti-ageing, 24-hour moisturisers or cure world peace if they’re above $5.

When they’re not being Scrooge-y, some fathers are just used to their usual methods, including what shampoo they use.

Instead: Restock his faves. You can even spruce them up by placing them in a nice hamper or basket. If a man is going to only use Old Spice, there’s very little that will deter him.

2. Yet another colourful tie or pair of socks

Image credit: @thesmartlocalsg via Instagram

What happens when you take the term better safe than sorry too seriously? You get your dad yet another colourful tie or pair of socks. There’s no denying that he appreciates these garments, but if they’re polka-dotted or neon they’ll wither away in the back of his drawer, along with his appreciation of you.

Instead: Stick to simple, good-quality clothes that your dad can use for all occasions. A nice shirt or solid pair of shoes can never go amiss.

If you really want to style your dad up, you can use “the girlfriend effect” method, the one where scraggly NS boys become models over a new relationship. Subtly gift him non-offensive but different articles of clothing you’d think would suit him best.

3. Overpriced vacation

You are setting yourself up for two weeks of non-stop complaining if your Father’s Day gift is an overpriced vacation. For most dads, this includes artsy Euro trips, beach resorts, and 5-star hotels, where the price tags are as jaw-dropping as the views.

At the very least, if you do plan on taking him to one of these destinations, just do not let him see a single bill receipt. Don’t worry Pa, it’s all-inclusive (nervous laughter).

Instead: Budget trips with simple itineraries where he won’t complain, he’ll never say no to free breakfast and discount goods. You can also pick up something from our list of the best Father’s Day travel gifts. Even if he enjoys museums, adventure sports and fine dining, he’ll be even more impressed if you manage to get those with good deals.

4. DIY coffee or tea sets

Image credit: RDNE Stock project via Pexels

Some of us have a vision of our dads doing 10-minute long tea rituals, and telling us that they can taste the hills. What we forget is that, much like us, they’re still impatient beings. They’re probably going to pop out those DIY coffee or tea sets once and then call it a day.

Some of these sets can set you back hundreds of dollars too. Even if your dad is priceless, what’s the point if he’s just going to get Kopi C siew dai from the coffee shop anyway? Unless he’s a tea enthusiast or coffee aficionado, you can take these out of the cart.

Instead: Get your dad a bottle of his favourite booze. You know that’s what he wants, especially to deal with all these terrible presents.

5. Overly complicated gadgets & DIY projects

Good intentioned as it may be, getting your dad overly complicated gadgets that claim to make things easier, can sometimes be like asking someone who only knows automatic to suddenly drive manual. For example, why buy one of those elaborate fruit slicers when the good old knife exists?

Sometimes giving tools and DIY projects are also a no-go, considering you’re essentially gifting your Abba work to do.

Instead: Learn how to deal with fixer-uppers by your damn self, and then you can score some brownie points when you can fix the pipes or WiFi at your parent’s house. If your father is one of those proactive peeps, you can sign him up for upskilling classes and maybe even make him a finbro while you’re at it.

6. Passive-aggressive self-improvement books

It’s dangerous territory, being paggro with the masters of discipline, so passive-aggressive self-improvement books are not gift-worthy on this occasion. They might seem like a funny gag gift for them, but how would you feel if someone gave you a “How to not suck at your job” guide for your birthday.

If you’re trying to send him a signal, a sarcastic novel will seem more like a blaring alarm rather than a subtle hint, leading to either a shouting match at the dinner table or a sulking fit. Yikes.

Instead: Bite the bullet and have a normal conversation with him. Sometimes our dads can seem like such aliens and superheroes, that we forget that they like to yap about their feelings too, so talking to them can be a great means to a resolution. Besides, even if your dad truly deserves it, he may not understand the book title anyway.

7. “World’s Best Dad” merch

Image adapted from: RDNE Stock project via Pexels

Officers, it’s this one right here. There is some irony in how getting “World’s Best Dad” merch can make you the world’s worst child. Whether it’s on a mug, or a t-shirt or god forbid a card, this gift is the definition of zero-effort.

It’s time that we stop this vicious cycle of bad gifting, as your dad probably gave his dad the same, and his dad to his dad and so forth. Curse you caveman who gifted his father a stone slab with #1 Father on it.

Instead: Get literally anything else, even something off this list, just not this.

8. Getting arrested

Image credit: Kindle Media via Pexels

It sounds drastic, but the worst gift to give is disappointment. Whether it’s something extreme like getting arrested or something plain like a poor report card, there’s nothing more painful than Fathers having to give their furrowed glares and sighs.

With ailments plaguing them with their age, the least you could do is not increase their blood pressure.

Instead: Do the bare minimum and be a good child. Worst case scenario, call your sibling or Mom for an SOS, and let your father live in blissful ignorance.

Steer clear from these terrible Father’s Day gift ideas

All jokes aside, Dads deserve a lot more love than, but it can be tough considering they’re not always the most materialistic. The simplest and most effective gift really is spending time with him. Play a game of cards, take him out to the mall or just have a nightcap together, and it’ll be more worth it than any gift you could give.

If you need more daddo-appreciation, check out the ways Singaporean fathers show their love or the best dads in Netflix shows. If you’re still scrambling for what gifts to get him, we’ve got you covered with the best Father’s Day deals to snag.

Cover image adapted from: RDNE Stock project via Pexels and @thesmartlocalsg via Instagram
Last updated on 14th June 2025.

The post 8 Worst Father’s Day Gift Ideas & What You Should Get Him Instead appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

Quiz: Which GE 2025 Candidate Are You Most Like? Answer 6 Questions & We’ll Match You To Their Vibes

Shannon Chow — Thu, 01 May 2025 01:00:46 +0000

Which GE 2025 candidate are you quiz

Once again, it’s General Election season, and our candidates are back in the spotlight. It’s been a whirlwind of walkabouts, campaign speeches, and rallies. But draw back the curtain of speeches and policies, and you’ll find that this year’s election is packed with personalities, from guitar shredders to Star Wars fans and vinyl collectors.

No surprise, candidates are just like us. If you’ve ever wondered which candidate you vibe with, check out our quiz. No politics, just personality. Here we go.

*By no means are we encouraging you to vote according to the candidate you get. Do your homework on policies and manifestos and make a wise decision on 3rd May 2025.

1. What would be a reason for you going viral?

A. Wearing NS eMart New Balance shoes to the National Day Parade

Image credit: @sammmacart via Instagram

B. Pasting a movie sticker at Tuas Lamp Post 1

C. Seeing Marge Simpson in the Gerrymander-ed electoral boundaries

D. You’re the new bias-wrecker and have a slew of rally fancams on TikTok

E. Getting into a random, near-miss accident

F. Start an Instagram page offering alternative opinions even before you’re legal enough to vote

Image credit: @roses_are_rosie via Instagram

G. Belting out APT wherever you go

2. What’s your fashion style?

Image credit: @enjoyth.co via Instagram

A. Proudly Practical – Your wardrobe has 10 colours of the same Uniqlo AIRism Oversized T-Shirt

B. Casual & Sporty – Always in athleisure wear because the gym is your 6-9 after your 9-6

C. Classic & Formal – 35°C heat means nothing – you’ll rock crisp collared shirts for days

D. Youthful & Classy – Your ribboned outfits are probably inspired by #coquette on Pinterest

Image credit: @talesandwonders via Instagram

E. Classic Yet Bold – You play it safe with a collared tee, but prints are where you show off your personality

F. Work Hard Play Hard – You rep your EPL jersey on weekends, much to your GF’s chagrin

G. Dad Vibes – The polo tee + jeans combo hasn’t failed since 1976

3. What’s your ideal way to spend a Saturday?

Image credit: @esthi.rides via Instagram

A. You trade 4 wheels for motorised 2 wheels, after all COE’s already paid

B. Stay in and binge watch Star Wars for the 50th time

C. No flight no problem – take a stroll through the airport and admire the planes

D. Own your pilates princess status and break a sweat at a studio class

E. There’s no time like now to look through your stationery collection and never use them

F. You’re up at dawn to chope the futsal court near your home so you and your kakis and kick around a ball like you used to in school

G. You may be 50 and your kids may be 10, but you’ll gladly destroy them at an arcade showdown

4. Which hidden talent matches your vibe the most?

A. Casually shreds the guitar from time to time

B. Vinyl collector with records from Freddie Mercury, Led Zeppelin, and The Rolling Stones in your collection

C. They call you Walking Wiki because of your immense knowledge in History, War Studies, Islamic Studies, and Law

D. You can hold a plank for more than 2 minutes

E. Human Duolingo proficient in Japanese, English, and Mandarin

F. Hat trick on the soccer field

G. Won company’s dinner & dance with an a capella version of Wa Meng Ti

5. Your neighbourhood complains about the GST hike, what do you do?

A. Host a guitar set, explain hikes with Canva slides, and end with a heartfelt apology

Image credit: @thatrunclub via Instagram

B. Tell them the suggestion box is at the end of a 42km marathon

C. Jalan jalan around the neighbourhood and complain right alongside them, then treat them to bubble tea

Image credit: @zuobeats via Instagram

D. Propose a tax on people who order fish at caifan stalls instead

E. Give out welfare packs filled with staples like rice and oil paid for out of your own pocket

F. Post a #GRWM TikTok rant about the GST hikes

G. Rally neighbourhood into song with “8 to 9% GST” by The Smart Local

6. Which of these best describes your breakfast style?

A. Toast and coffee – No need think so much, so you’re out the door faster

B. Carrot cake at the hawker centre – After gym day this one has no calories

Image credit: @hellozizilovepanda via Instagram

C. Mee siam – This one not mai hum

D. Greek yoghurt with berries – Is it really for health or for your Instagram story

E. Roti prata telur – Because you can have a cheeky roti prata supper for breakfast too

F. Soft-boiled eggs and kopi – Protein and caffeine whether you’re 18 or 80

G. Economic fried noodles – Save on breakfast, splurge on dinner

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