Nov-Dec-Jan | 2019-2020

Dos + Don'ts Gifting

Photo: 123RF.com

Because each culture in SG has its own set of rules and taboos. By Joshua Tan

Chinese Culture DO: Flowers make great gifts, but be extremely careful with the floral type: White flowers like frangipani and chrysanthemums are funeral flowers for the Chinese and Indian communities, and should be avoided. Choose gifts like ginseng, bird’s nest, essence of chicken and premium liquors. You can also present hongbaos to young children filled with $2 notes, or opt for amounts that end with the number 8, which signifies prosperity. DON’T: Shoes, sharp objects like scissors, knives or cutting utensils are no-nos, as many believe these symbolise a severing or end of a relationship or

Indian Culture DO: If you know your host drinks, a bottle of Scotch can go a long way

friendship. Shoes are a bad choice as the Chinese word for footwear sounds like the word, xie , which means “evil”. Clocks and other timepieces are viewed as reminders of mortality and as wishing someone death. Malay Culture DO: If you’re invited to a Malay person’s home and need to bring a hosting gift, forget the guesswork and simply ask what they would like to have, or opt for halal -certified (permissible under Islamic law) coffees, teas, cookies and chocolates. DON’T: Never gift pork or goods like shoes made with pig leather, if the recipient is a practising Muslim. Ditto any alcohol products, lest you offend your host.

(avoid it, otherwise). While you wouldn’t typically give monetary gifts to your host during the festive period, you can present this to an intended couple at a wedding, with the amount in odd numbers (contrary to the Chinese). Gift wrappers should be in bright colours, not black or white. Note: Presents are usually opened only after all of the guests have left. DON’T: The cow is sacred in Hinduism, so don’t gift products made with cowhide or oxhide. A considerable number of Hindus observe vegetarianism, so avoid meat, dairy or egg products if you’re unsure.

FREE!

TheFinder.com.sg ISSUE300

Insider'sGuide forExpats inSingapore

HOT ’HOOD: SELETAR

Shiok SG!

28 THE AMERICAN CLUB SINGAPORE The Finder is the Insider’s Guide for Expats in Singapore, aimed at helping expatriates and internationally minded “global locals” live well in the Lion City. Subscribe and get the print magazine delivered, or download the digital edition for free on Magzter.com. Check out the website for great things to do, eat, buy and try around town and the region! thefindersingapore www.thefinder.com.sg

#FINDERSGFAVES 34Singaporeansbehind greatbrandsweadore

SG’SMOST INSTAGRAMMABLE PLACESTOSTAY BESTART,SOUVENIRS +MORETOBUY NOW 15REASONSTOLOVE LIVINGHERE*

*NOMATTERWHEREYOU’REFROM!

300 ISSUE

Spine:2.5mm SF0919_300_Cover.indd 2

COLLECTOR’S EDITION

PANTONE3265C

Operator: ZS Titles: Finder

TEL:63112898 We do not accept responsibility for any error,defect or inaccuracy which is not noted on the proof. Therefore customers are advised to thorou check and exa 1 st 2 nd FAX:63112851

22/8/19 9:47AM

5 th

6 th