Natasha ShadeannaNew Laws in Singapore – As we welcome 2020 and gear up for another exciting year of travels and adventure, it is important to be aware of new legislations in countries you are intending to visit.
Enjoying your travels is priority, but so is being safe! Here are some new laws in Singapore that you should be aware of travelling to the sunny island and one for when you cross the causeway to neighbouring, Malaysia.
Legal smoking age is 20
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With the new year approaching, the government of Singapore is putting in the second step to their three-year plan of progressively raising the minimum legal age to purchase tobacco to 21 years-old. Laws in Singapore
This means that under-aged smokers who are caught using, buying, or possessing tobacco products could be fined up to S$300. If you are a younger traveller, and looking to spend your money enjoying this bright city rather than paying a fine, take note!
Don’t throw your cigarette butts freely!
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Still on the topic of tobacco, after making sure that you smoke in the designated yellow boxes in the city, do not throw your cigarette butts freely when you are done! For those who do not properly dispose lighted remnants such as cigarette butts, firm actions will be taken by the authority.
This is due to the law that a person will be presumed to have substantially contributed to the risk of causing a dangerous fire if it occurs within an hour at or near the place where the individual left anything that could cause a fire. Better be safe than sorry!
Penal Code refresh? Yes, please!
Image credit: wp paarz Laws in Singapore
The Penal Code refresh will begin on 1 January 2020! Part of the reforms include crimes that is in relation to technology such as “cyber flashing” and doxxing.
The law will also be stricter on those who prey on young and vulnerable victims covering crimes against those below 14, domestic workers and those with mental or physical disabilities. Marital immunity for rape will finally be fully repealed and attempted suicide will be decriminalised, a move in the right direction!
Also Read: Australia’s ‘Backpacker Tax’ Law Is Now Ruled Illegal By Court
E-scooters’ footpath ban
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While electric scooters have been banned from footpaths since 5 November 2019, most users have only been given warnings as part of an advisory period to allow riders to adjust to the new regulations.
But as the new year comes along, there will be “zero-tolerance” for those caught riding an e-scooter on footpaths. If found guilty, there will be a fine of up to S$2,000 and/or jail of up to three months.
While this law might not directly apply to you as a traveler, the law was put in place for the safety of all pedestrians. So if you see something amiss, play your part in making Singapore safe for all! Laws in Singapore
Bonus: Smoking in Malaysian eateries? No more!
Image credit: AQanta S Sutarjo
While you might assume that the authority is more laxed in Malaysia, that is not the case. Malaysia has set in motion a ban on smoking at all food establishments to protect the public from exposure to cigarette smoke.
This ban also covers food stalls and vehicles near dining areas, and also restaurants on ships and trains. If found guilty, one can be fined up to RM10,000 or jailed up to two years!
