Greetings Etiquette in Singapore

A polite handshake is the safest greeting in Singapore, usually with a brief nod and a light, restrained style rather than hugs or overly familiar contact unless you know the person well. In everyday settings people may also use a simple “hello” or “hi,” and in more traditional Chinese, Malay, or Indian contexts you may see respectful verbal greetings or a slight bow-like nod, but keeping things calm and courteous matters more than any elaborate ritual.