Gift Giving Etiquette

Under the façade of a western cosmopolitan metropolis, Singapore is a multi-ethnic community where Chinese, Malay, and Indian traditions coexist. The three major ethnic groups are varied in terms of culture and religion. The three major ethnic groups are presented separately since there are cultural variances between how they regard presents.

Gift giving to ethnic Chinese:

• Before it is accepted, a gift may be turned down three times. This shows that the recipient is not materialistic. Giving scissors, knives, or other cutting implements conveys your want to end the connection. Clocks, hankies, and straw sandals should never be given as gifts because they are connected to funerals and passing away.

• As these are colors of grief, avoid using white, blue, or black paper to wrap gifts. Red, pink, or yellow should be used to wrap gifts because they are cheery hues. Gifts must be wrapped elaborately. As birds are the harbinger of death, never wrap a present for a baby or decorate it in any manner with a stork.

• Give lucky numbers instead; avoid giving odd numbers. If you're invited to a formal dinner party, don't bring food because it suggests you don't trust the host to show you enough hospitality. Bring a token present of fruit, candy, or cake and indicate that it is intended for the kids. When received, gifts are not always opened. Flowers are given to the ill and used at funerals, thus they don't make nice gifts.

Gift giving to ethnic Malays:

• Give no alcohol ever. Don't let kids play with toy dogs. Being Muslim, Malaysians prefer not to receive anything made of pigskin. Instead of giving the present as you arrive, do so as you leave.

• White wrapping paper should be avoided as it represents death and sadness. Use red or green paper to wrap presents. Make sure the food is halal if you donate it. If the gift is huge, use both hands or just your right hand when presenting it. When received, gifts are not always opened.
  
  

Gift giving to ethnic Indians:

• Avoid giving frangipani flowers if you are giving them as they are used in funeral wreaths. Donate S$11 instead of S$10 because it is customary to give money in odd amounts. If the gift is huge, use both hands or just your right hand when presenting it.

• Don't use white or black to wrap presents. Wrap presents on paper that is red, yellow, or green or another vibrant color since these colors are auspicious. Give no leather goods to a Hindu. Give alcohol only if you are convinced the receiver will consume it.When received, gifts are not always opened.