Local comics observe wryly that Singapore is a fine city. It has two meanings to it. One, we are really a wonderful country. The other, there are always fines for little offences such as littering, jaywalking, smoking in the non-smoking areas, etc.

While foreigners might consider these regulations to be intolerable restrictions on self-expression and individual liberty, most Singaporeans accept them as unavoidable inconveniences to keep life on an even and pleasant keel. Without that $1000 littering fine, it is unlikely that Singapore would be as clean as it is. If you are walking, remember that you can be fined for crossing the road against the traffic lights or within 50 metres of a zebra crossing, traffic light or any other pedestrian crossing.