A Singaporean man who recently returned from a trip to China has sparked discussion online after sharing his candid observations about the country’s rapid technological progress, while questioning whether social behaviour has kept pace with development.
According to the man, China’s advancements in technology are undeniable. From seamless cashless payments to facial recognition access systems and high-speed rail networks that rival global standards, he described the country as “operating in the future”. Everyday tasks such as paying for meals, booking transport and even checking into hotels could be completed within seconds using mobile applications, reflecting China’s strong push towards digital infrastructure and smart city development.
He noted that even smaller cities appeared technologically sophisticated, with widespread use of QR code payments, automated retail outlets and efficient logistics systems. For a visitor from Singapore, a nation known for its own technological efficiency, the level of digital adoption was still impressive. “From a hardware and systems point of view, China has already overtaken many developed countries,” he remarked, adding that the pace of innovation was particularly evident in public transport and e-commerce services.
People’s Behaviour Still Raises Eyebrows
However, despite the sleek technology and modern infrastructure, the man said he was disappointed by what he experienced on a human level. He claimed that basic social etiquette in public spaces remained a problem, especially in crowded areas such as transport hubs, shopping centres and tourist attractions.
He described frequent incidents of queue-cutting, with some individuals pushing forward without regard for those who had been waiting patiently. In other situations, he witnessed people spitting openly on the streets, despite clear signage discouraging such behaviour. Loud shouting, rowdy conduct and a general lack of spatial awareness were also mentioned as recurring issues during his trip.
While acknowledging that not everyone behaved poorly, he felt that such actions were common enough to leave a lasting impression. “The technology has upgraded, but the mindset feels stuck in the past,” he commented, adding that the contrast was particularly jarring when compared to Singapore’s emphasis on civic responsibility and public cleanliness.
A Contrast With Singapore Standards
The man stressed that his observations were not meant to insult the country as a whole, but rather to highlight the gap between physical development and social behaviour. He pointed out that Singapore’s success lies not just in its infrastructure, but also in the strict enforcement of rules and strong public education around courtesy and cleanliness.
In Singapore, behaviours such as spitting, littering and cutting queues often result in fines, and social norms are reinforced from a young age. This, he said, creates an environment where people generally feel safe and respected in shared spaces. He suggested that similar enforcement and public awareness campaigns could help address behavioural issues in China’s urban areas.
His remarks have since resonated with many Singaporeans who have travelled to China, with some agreeing that while the country excels in technology and innovation, social habits can lag behind. Others cautioned against overgeneralisation, noting that cultural differences and regional variations play a significant role.
As China continues to invest heavily in smart infrastructure, fintech solutions and digital transformation, the conversation has shifted towards whether social norms will evolve at the same speed. For this Singaporean observer, true progress, he believes, requires both advanced systems and respectful behaviour to move forward together.