Getting to Know Singapore - April 2010
- Telephone numbers in SG comes in the 8-digit numbering format. I have to add 6 to existing fixed line telephone number. The digit '9' is for mobile phone services.
- Calling to and from Malaysia does not require IDD. Call to SG from Malaysia requires only area code 02. Haha, i do not even know SG area code is 02 (KL 03, Penang 04, Perak 05).
- Singtel, one of the SG phone provider charges local phone rate to Malaysia, dial 019 + country code+ area code + phone for a limited time.
- Receiving local call in SG is chargable (Singtel). I must admit that i do not know SG very well.
- SG classifies the foreign workers by how much $$ money they make. R pass for those make less than $1800/month, S pass xxx, Q pass, P2, P1, etc...i am thinking of 'income' discrimination
- Subscribing to internet service (Singtel, Starhub, or M1) as foreigner requires deposit money ...it can go up to $200SGD. One good thing is the the application process is fast. Applying as Employee Pass holder/PR/citizen is almost free.
- Traveling in SG is convenient because SG is small and the transportation system is well planned. But i found traveling on MRT and buses is 'groomy' and crowded. I have no traffic jam problem, except people jam issue. People in SG seldom smile, especially commuters :(
- All banks in SG need Malaysian to produce their Malaysian ID card when opening up a bank account, even they do not publish that requirement on their website. Deposit is needed to open an account, as usual for bank: money comes first (i almost forgot).
- You can hardly differentiate between citizen, permanent resident (PR) and foreigners in Singapore. I can easily find an American who is a citizen, a Malay who is PR and a Chinese who is a foreigner. Just throw a stone and you will hit one (throwing is an offense in SG irregardless of hitting the target or not, and you will get fined for that).
- SG is a good place to work, but not sure is a good place to live. Will find out more