For 2023, the number of crimes committed in Singapore for every 100,000 individuals was 1,188. This was a ten-year high, and mostly due to the increasing online scams and cybercrimes cases.
Despite the numbers, the country still holds the reputation for being one of the safest cities in the world. Violent crime in Singapore is rare – as of 2021, such crimes accounted for nine per 100 thousand population.
The low crime rate in Singapore did not come by chance and it is no doubt a gradual process (of a few factors coming together) to achieve what they have today. The main reasons are the following:
- Singaporeans/Foreigners Earning Enough
When everyone has a job and has money to support themselves, petty crimes such as theft and robberies are not (as) appealing. Many may also find it funny that Singaporeans also like to spend their time complaining about their own citizens for not giving up seats on the train by taking photos on our iphones and android, then shaming them online more than worrying about making ends meet.
Law enforcers like our friendly policemen are also pretty well paid thereby decreasing corruption cases here. Therefore, one can be sure that the local policemen are on the right side.
Also, it is interesting to note that there are almost zero protests here apart from a bunch or crazies who want their CPF (our national retirement scheme) monies back. - Laws in Singapore are Enfocred
Unlike many countries in the world, Singapore enforces its laws. The system here means what it says and does what it means. They impose very tough laws and actually carry them out to deter people who "try their luck".
For example, many would remember Michael P. Fay who was a teenager convicted of public vandalism and was charged and sentenced to jail+fine+Caning. Caning here is a heavy punishment meted out to crimes such as rape but is also used here for a petty offence like vandalism. If one breaks the law, it is all black and white. Even a plea from then American President Bill Clinton did not make the government waver in upholding its justice.
Possession of firearms here is also prohibited, while sale of alcohol is banned after 10:30 P.M. as a result of the Little India riots. - Educational Campaigns in Schools
Although it is not 100 percent fool-proof, the government spends time and effort to educate Singaporean children about the harm drugs and cigarettes can do to their bodies. As a result they have a whole system of concerted efforts that collectively condition and deter people away from committing crimes from young age.
Basically, cCrime isn't worth it when you have a stable and peaceful life.