15-1-2024 (SINGAPORE) A TikTok video has sparked surprise and confusion as a man from Singapore confidently stated that Singaporeans speak English when asked to speak their native language. The incident left the TikToker stumped and opened up a discussion about Singapore’s multilingualism.
The video, uploaded by TikToker Khan (@hikhann_), features a street interview conducted in New York. Khan approached a man from Singapore and asked him to speak in his native language. To Khan’s surprise, the man responded by saying that Singaporeans speak English.
Singapore is known for its linguistic diversity, with multiple ethnicities calling the island state home. While Singaporeans are educated in their mother tongues, English is commonly used as the default language for communication among locals.
The TikTok video quickly gained attention, with viewers expressing disbelief and surprise at the fact that English is widely spoken in Singapore. However, it is important to note that English serves as the main administrative language and lingua franca for people of all races in the country. Alongside English, Singapore recognizes Chinese, Malay, and Tamil as its other official languages, based on the major ethnic groups.
While many Singaporeans are proficient in English, they also have knowledge of their own mother tongues, such as Mandarin, Malay, or Tamil, depending on their ethnic backgrounds. This linguistic diversity is what sets Singaporeans apart and enables effective communication in various settings.
The phenomenon of Singapore’s multilingualism, including its unique colloquial form of English known as Singlish, is now being shared with the world through platforms like TikTok. The video serves as a reminder that Singapore’s language landscape is rich and offers a fascinating cultural tapestry.
@hikhann_ What do you do for a living? #whatdoyoudoforaliving #foryoupage #fypp #fypシ #fy #clout #foryourpage #foryou #fyp #fypage #foru ♬ original sound – Khan
