History
Food
Landmarks and Neighbourhood
Culture
100
How many different national anthems would a Singaporean born in 1819 have gone through?
1) One national anthem
2) Two national anthems
3) Three national anthems
4) Four national anthems
4) 4 national anthems
1) Singapore's National Anthem when during Colonial Rule of British (1819-1942 & 1945-1962)
During our Colonial period of Singapore when we were once under the British , the National Anthem at that time was: God Save the Queen
2) When Singapore was Syonan-to (昭南島) (Light of the South) National Anthem (1942-1945)
Next comes to when Singapore was Syonan-to (昭南島) (Light of the South)
this was the Japanese occupation period when we came under the Japanese and were made to sing Japanese National Anthem which was : "Kimigayo" (君が代) at that point of time.
3) The Malaysia Federation (1962-1965)
Next was during the period of time when Singapore was in a merger with Malaysia.
4) Singapore an Independent Country 1965 - Present
Finally came the time after the break with Malaysia and Singapore became an independent country left on it's own by itself
At this point of time, our very own unique national anthem was: Majulah Singapura.
English: Onward Singapore
Chinese: 前进吧，新加坡
Tamil: முன்னேறட்டும் சிங்கப்பூர்
100
"Rojak" is a popular salad in Singapore, known for its mix of contrasting flavors. The word "rojak" is derived from a Malay word meaning:
a) "Spicy and tangy"
b) "Sweet and savory"
c) "Mixed" or "eclectic"
d) "Fried and crispy"
c) "Mixed" or "eclectic"
What makes Singapore Rojak truly special is the thick and savory peanut sauce that coats all the ingredients. This sauce is a crucial component, as it binds the various elements together and infuses the dish with its distinct taste. The sauce is made from freshly ground peanuts, chili, sugar, tamarind, and other spices, creating a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors.
In Singlish, the word "rojak" can be used to describe a situation or thing that is a mixture of different and unrelated elements.
100
Which continent is Singapore in?
Asia
100
What is Singapore's national language?
Malay
200
What happened between 1941 to 1945?
Japanese Occupation
200
"Nonya" or "Peranakan" cuisine is a fusion of Chinese and Malay flavors. The term "Peranakan" refers to descendants of Chinese immigrants who settled in the region and intermarried with the local Malay community. Which of these dishes is an example of Nonya cuisine?
a) Chicken Rice
b) Beef Rendang
c) Chana Masala
d) Laksa
d) Laksa
Peranakan cuisine, also known as Nyonya cuisine, is a unique blend of Chinese and Malay culinary traditions, originating from the descendants of Chinese immigrants who settled in the Malay archipelago and intermarried with the local Malays. The term "Peranakan" refers to the locally born descendants of these mixed marriages.
Laksa, one of the most famous dishes in Peranakan cuisine, has two distinct regional variations: "Katong Laksa" and "Penang (Assam) Laksa."
200
The Merlion is a famous symbol of Singapore. What is unique about the Merlion?
a) It is a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the tail of a fish.
b) It is the largest indoor waterfall in the world.
c) It is a floating platform used for concerts and events.
d) It is a popular local dish made from rice and fish.
a) It is a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the tail of a fish.
200
What is the meaning of the Singlish term, 'shiok'?
a) Hot and spicy
b) Delicious and enjoyable
c) Unpleasant and disgusting
b) Delicious and enjoyable
"Shiok" is a popular and expressive Singlish word that conveys a strong sense of pleasure, enjoyment, or satisfaction. It is often used to describe something that is delightful, delicious, or simply enjoyable. The word has its roots in Malay, where "syok" means pleasure or delight. Over time, it has been adapted into Singlish and is now widely used by Singaporeans to express positive emotions.
For example:
- "This food is so shiok!"
- "The massage was shiok, I feel so relaxed now."
- "The concert was shiok lah, the music was fantastic!"
"Shiok" has a uniquely Singaporean touch and adds a distinct flavor to conversations, reflecting the enthusiasm and appreciation of life's enjoyable moments in the local culture. Its adoption into Singlish showcases how different languages and cultures have come together to create a vibrant and expressive linguistic identity in Singapore.
300
Who is the first President appointed by Parliament?
Yusof Ishak
300
What is the year that chewing gum was first banned in Singapore?
1) 1982
2) 1992
3) 2002
4) 2012
1992
The ban was introduced as part of the government's efforts to maintain cleanliness and orderliness in the city-state.
Here are some key points about the ban on chewing gum in Singapore:
Public Litter and Vandalism: Before the ban, gum litter was a significant problem in Singapore. Chewing gum stuck to public spaces, including sidewalks, public transportation seats, between MRT train doors, and elevators, leading to costly cleaning and maintenance efforts. The government saw the ban as a measure to maintain cleanliness and reduce the cost of gum-related damages.
Respect for Public Spaces: The ban also sought to instill a sense of civic responsibility and respect for public spaces among Singaporeans. By prohibiting the sale of chewing gum, the government hoped to encourage cleanliness and discourage littering or vandalism with gum.
Amended Regulations: In 2004, the ban on chewing gum was partially lifted, allowing the sale of sugar-free chewing gum for oral health benefits. However, it remains important to note that the sale of regular chewing gum is still not permitted in Singapore.
300
Question: The Singapore River played a significant role in the early development of Singapore as a trading port. Which river does the Singapore River flow into?
a) Johor River
b) Kallang River
c) Ganges River
d) Malacca River
b) Kallang River
In the 1970s and 1980s, the Singapore River underwent a significant transformation. It was cleaned up, and efforts were made to revitalize the area. Today, it is a picturesque and vibrant part of the city, attracting tourists and locals alike.
Tourists can explore the Singapore River and its surrounding landmarks by taking river cruises. These boat rides offer stunning views of iconic sites such as Marina Bay Sands, the Merlion, and the historic Fullerton Hotel.
300
Thaipusam is an important religious festival celebrated by the Tamil community in Singapore. What is the significant ritual associated with Thaipusam?
a) Offering prayers at Hindu temples
b) Carrying a kavadi, a decorative burden, as an act of penance and devotion
c) Performing traditional Tamil dance forms
d) Presenting offerings of fruits and flowers to deities
b) Carrying a kavadi, a decorative burden, as an act of penance and devotion.
https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/celebrating-thaipusam/index.html
400
In 1963, Malaya joined with several other territories to form Malaysia. Which countries were part of the original formation of Malaysia?
a) Singapore, Brunei, and Maldives
b) Singapore, North Borneo (now Sabah), Sarawak, and Malaya
c) Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand
d) Singapore, Philippines, and Vietnam
b) Singapore, North Borneo (now Sabah), Sarawak, and Malaya
The original formation of Malaysia in 1963 included four territories: Singapore, North Borneo (now Sabah), Sarawak, and Malaya. These territories came together to form a new nation under the name "Malaysia." However, Singapore later separated from Malaysia in 1965 to become an independent country.
400
Name one of the two Singaporean dishes that made it to the CNN's list of the 50 best food dishes in the world.
Chilli crab, chicken rice
400
Sentosa Island is a popular resort destination in Singapore. What was the island's original name?
a) Pulau Ujong
b) Pulau Blakang Mati
c) Pulau Tekong
d) Pulau Hantu
b) Pulau Blakang Mati
400
The Singapore Botanic Gardens was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015. What is the unique title that it holds among UNESCO World Heritage Sites?
a) It is the first and only tropical botanic garden on the list.
b) It is the smallest UNESCO site in Southeast Asia.
c) It is the only site recognized solely for its historical significance.
b) It is the first and only tropical botanic garden on the list.
500
What is the main island of Singapore called?
1) Pulau Tekong
2) Pulau Ujong
3) Pulau Singapura
4) Pulau Ubin
2) Pulau Ujong
"Pulau Ujong" is an old Javanese/Malay term that means "island at the end of the peninsula" or "island at the tip." It was historically used to refer to the entire island of Singapore, including all the smaller surrounding islands.
Over time, as Singapore developed and expanded, the name "Pulau Ujong" became less commonly used in everyday language, and the term "Singapore" came to refer specifically to the main island. Today, when people mention "Pulau Ujong," they are typically referring to the main island of Singapore, which houses the majority of the country's population, infrastructure, and attractions.
500
"Rendang" is a classic Malay dish known for its rich and flavorful meat stew. What was the original purpose of preparing Rendang in traditional Malay culture?
a) Offering to ancestors during religious ceremonies
b) Preservation of meat in tropical climates
c) Symbolizing prosperity and wealth
d) As a tribute to visiting dignitaries
b) Preservation of meat in tropical climates
Rendang is a dish originating from the Minangkabau ethnic group of Indonesia, which also has a significant presence in Malaysia and Singapore. It is a slow-cooked meat stew that uses various spices and coconut milk. Traditionally, Rendang was developed as a method of preserving meat in the hot and humid tropical climate of Southeast Asia.
The Minang people believe that rendang has three philosophical meanings: patience, wisdom, and persistence. Cooking rendang requires patience, persistence in stirring, and wisdom in setting the fire. Wisdom is needed in choosing the ingredients such as meat, chili, and other spices that are required to achieve the desired taste. Many aspects, such as patience and experience, are needed to achieve perfection. Ingredients for preparing rendang depend on the availability. Originally, beef and buffalo meat were used, but now one could see more diverse kinds of rendang.
500
Yishun was formerly known as Nee Soon, named after Lim Nee Soon.
Lim Nee Soon was a successful businessman and a pioneer in which industry in Singapore?
a) Rubber plantations
b) Shipping and maritime
c) Banking and finance
d) Textile manufacturing
a) Rubber plantations
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“Pineapple King” Lim Nee Soon (centre, standing) stands in front of a motor truck from his rubber factory, fully loaded with pineapples. Lim Chong Hsien Collection, courtesy of National Archives of Singapore.
Lim Nee Soon recognized the potential of rubber as a lucrative cash crop. He was among the first to venture into large-scale rubber cultivation in Singapore and the surrounding areas. His efforts played a significant role in transforming rubber into one of the country's primary exports.
His rubber plantations provided employment opportunities for many local workers, contributing to the economic growth of Singapore and nearby areas. The rubber industry also attracted foreign investors, further boosting the region's economy.
Yishun used to be an area with pineapple and rubber plantations in the past. Before urbanization and development, much of the land in the northern region of Singapore was covered with rubber plantations, as rubber was one of the major cash crops during the early 20th century.
The fertile lands in the Yishun area, along with the favorable climate and soil conditions, made it an ideal location for rubber cultivation. The rubber plantations in Yishun and surrounding areas contributed to Singapore's economic growth and helped establish the country as a major rubber producer and exporter during that period.
500
In the 1960s and 1970s, the Singaporean government launched the "Speak Good English Movement" to discourage the use of Singlish. What was the primary reason behind this initiative?
a) To promote English as the international language of business and communication
b) To preserve the purity of traditional languages like Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil
c) To eliminate Singlish completely from everyday speech
d) To avoid linguistic misunderstandings with neighboring countries
a) To promote English as the international language of business and communication