The Reality Of Living in Singapore For 17 Years (as an American)
Рет қаралды 421,620
Күн бұрынTry Fast International Money Transfer with Instarem 👉 www.instarem.com/?...
Use the promo code MAXC20 to get SGD 20 off your first transfer and an additional SGD 20 off your second transfer, with a minimum transfer of SGD 500 each. The offer expires on 31 July, 2023.
Meet Dennis. He's from the US and has been living in Singapore for 17 years, yet he still doesn't hold a PR. We had a really exciting conversation about prejudices against expats and why he won't retire in Singapore. Enjoy!
Dennis on LinkedIn: / dennis-mccomb-6253ab14b
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 INTRO
00:28 Relationships with Singapore
01:48 Diversity in Asia VS America
03:19 Retirement in Singapore
03:45 Money hacks from Dennis
05:54 Cultural shock
07:58 Habits Dennis adopted living in Singapore
08:45 Crazy story about Singapore
12:05 Prejudices against expats
12:50 What American city is Singapore similar to?
14:40 What should America learn from Singapore?
15:47 Is there a democracy in Singapore?
19:20 Life advice from Dennis
WATCH NEXT:
► Pros and Cons of moving to Singapore from New York: • Pros and Cons of movin...
► Why this American decided to live in Singapore: • Why this American deci...
► Pros & Cons of Living in Singapore as a Foreigner: • Pros & Cons of Living ...
LET'S BE FRIENDS:
► My Instagram (use the translate button to read the posts 😇): / chernov_networking
► Sponsorship-related requests: maxim.chernov.msc@gmail.com
Hey! I'm Max. This channel is about life and business in Singapore, as well as other South East Asian countries. I interview inspirational people and ask them tricky questions. Enjoy! :)
#AmericanExpat #MaxChernov #Singapore
@muhammadfairuzsamsi7209 Жыл бұрын
Bro, I think this is one of the best interviews so far. He's really being frank about his experiences. A breath of fresh air.
@arsenal_84 Жыл бұрын
Yup, having stay in sg for so many yrs, he really adapted well.
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
Appreciate it, bro! 🤙🙏
@tanhuachan Жыл бұрын
Yes bro. I like it too. Well said by you.
@andrewv.9890 Жыл бұрын
Frankness is mostly an American thing bro.
@xaerotan8286 Жыл бұрын
@@arsenal_84 V Viv thn bt B tidak bunk un Slide clips to delete themText you copy will automatically showSlide clips to delete themPin copied text snippets to stop them expiring after 1 hourSlide clips to delete them herernbjssedtkj😢dg😢😢😢j😊
@AndrePHK Жыл бұрын
Why does it always takes a foreigner to appreciate what we, as Singaporeans, regrettably, take for granted? Dennis, you deserve the PR, best of luck in your next application.
@rjjrjehehew Жыл бұрын
He doesn't want pr, he wants to retire in us.
@Phello123 Жыл бұрын
Because we don't get much to take for granted. Foreigners are first class citizens, local girls and second class citizens and local males are third class citizens in Singapore.
@tintintin534 Жыл бұрын
Singaporeans just love to complain and not being contented. need to live overseas and get some life experience
@alimfuzzy Жыл бұрын
@General Hux you're full of BS. Do you even live in Singapore?
@cmymotion Жыл бұрын
Nobody wants to retire here. You need a job to live in Singapore
@vicdesilva Жыл бұрын
The reason the police used a note book is because it won’t get recorded into the system. It’s a non issue. 😊
@boohennessy4638 11 ай бұрын
@A A R You also don't need a battery, firmware upgrades, internet connection etc. Writing also helps your memory.
@roberthalverson3987 8 ай бұрын
WHY NOT USE A BODY-WORN CAMERA TO DO THE INTERVIEW AND ONLY WRITE DOWN IMPORTANT TECHNICAL DETAILS? THEN THE OFFICER CAN REVIEW THEIR INTERVIEW BEFORE TYPING UP (OR DICTATING) THEIR REPORT AFTERWARDS. SINGAPORE IS AN ADVANCED COUNTRY AND I'M SURE THEIR POLICE DO THIS BY NOW.
@Horotoma 5 ай бұрын
@@roberthalverson3987 trust me, the officer used her discretion after realising that one guy was being very petty and decided that this is a normal, non-violent dispute, and decided the best way to de-escalate the issue is by taking a statement by note and just leave it at that. Cameras are not used probably as the incident didn't warrant it.
@induchopra3014 4 ай бұрын
Police just did formality. But this man is a pycho..look at his speed of talking. He doesn't seem to have many friends. He could have sorted this small issue himself
@junbecks 4 ай бұрын
Thats what many Singaporeans do . Cant communicate? Call the police. Cant deescalate? Stomp/whip out camera and record.
@mylesnmore Жыл бұрын
I'm also American living in Singapore for 15-years and I agree with a lot of these points he mentioned. As long as you live like a normal person, you get by without thinking about missing certain "freedoms". Great point.
@Nelson484 Жыл бұрын
That's what many people in totalitarian countries say, too. Just don't protest against the government, know you place, keep your head down and you will be fine.
@ericww1993 Жыл бұрын
@@Nelson484 Why protest when the goverment always hear and respond so quick? What to be protested about?
@commentarytalk1446 Жыл бұрын
@@Nelson484 If you listen to his story of the dispute with the car, the only way HIGH DENSITY environments can be organized with humans is fundamentally through an "Authorative" regime. And it works for people better too. If you take the much vaunted "democracy" (it's not democracy at all it's poltiical and bureaucratic "elite" running a nation with the periodic circus of elections) how things run tend to degrade over time with insurmountable "special pleading" and appeasement eg the homelessness problem in the US is an example or kids school behaviour is out of control in other such nations. Just look at many US Cities degrading.
@Ginasgusa Жыл бұрын
I am a Singaporean living in the US. In general, Singapore is an awesome country with government taking good care of its citizens. I am very proud of my country. However, we all realized that no country is perfect so as much as I love my home country, I totally disagreed when it comes to freedom. Absolutely no freedom in Singapore unless you wanna be a puppet, string along by the govt. I was warned numerous times that I shouldn’t talk about politics because “they” are listening. Don’t say this or that! I am embarrassed with their backward laws regarding the rights of the LGBTQ society. This is a review given by a westerner. All nice but I truly like a review from a Chinese, or Malay or Indian who migrated to Singapore. I think the story will turn out to be a little different.
@ericww1993 Жыл бұрын
@@Ginasgusa "..government taking good care of its citizens.." dude please, its all that matters
@matthewhartman7176 Жыл бұрын
My GF lives in Tampines. I'm from WA USA. I was in Singapore recently and greatly enjoyed my stay and the lifestyle. The sense of safety and unity was something very foreign to my senses as an American. A welcome one. I found myself agreeing with much of what this man said. Yeah, Singapore is definitely not the place to retire. Honestly, I'm not convinced the USA is either. I miss Kopi C kasong lah. 😂
@shreeraaman1667 2 ай бұрын
You should consider retiring in Ukraine. I've heard that the weather ☁️ is fantastic over there.
@marielee4643 Жыл бұрын
As a Singaporean, I definitely agree with him regarding retirement. Got to keep the income flowing in and it's quite stressful.
@lannyjr1042 8 ай бұрын
Malaysia 👌
@Etendard1708 7 ай бұрын
Singapore is not the right place for retirement. Better go to Malaysia
@Etendard1708 7 ай бұрын
But then again.. Singapore is far better than Hong Kong. They value diversity here & the govt is good enough even Hong Kongers go to Singapore to find work
@marielee4643 7 ай бұрын
I would probably advise against going to work as an English teacher in Singapore since the market for English teachers is too saturated. If I'm not wrong, the demand for IT trained workforce is much higher. Data Analytics is quite a hot field.
@Maya-sv1pz Жыл бұрын
he's direct and honest. welcome to south east asia. you're part of us now
@glehagocoaching Жыл бұрын
I am Danish and have lived in Singapore for 12 years already and love it here. I was fortunate enough to obtain a PR status back in 2011 which has definitely helped me. I value how Singapore manages a multicultural society where everyone can feel welcome and have the ability to contribute to society here.
@kwacou4279 Жыл бұрын
Chinese Singaporeans constitute 75.9% of the Singaporean citizen population. It is a Chinese nation with ethnic minorities.
@glehagocoaching Жыл бұрын
@@kwacou4279 of the resident population you are correct at 2022 had 74% ethnic Chinese. But there are also 1.6 million non residents in Singapore, large parts from Indonesia, Philippines and South Asia. 👍 It's a melting pot. Remember that culture is not defined purely by ethnicity. 😉 Belief system, world experiences, nationalities, heritage and more are all here and Singapore tries hard to create a place that is welcoming to everyone. 🙏
@abbey2874 8 ай бұрын
Haha multiculturalism what a stupid idiotic remark. Shows u have totally believe the Chinese PR BS
@jwanglerz8500 4 ай бұрын
@@kwacou4279and Singapore is the only country in south east Asia that practices meritocracy. Not soo for the rest in the region.
@asmirann3636 4 ай бұрын
@@glehagocoaching Singapore is basically an Asian ecosystem. The whole South East Asia was always very diverse. People of various ethnicity lived with each other for centuries. Chinese, Indians were always present across the region in lands that were Malay, Indonesian, Thai or Burmese. But all of these groups believed and practiced peaceful co-existence. Such an ecosystem is completely opposite to the European ecosystem where Ethno-nationalism or Tribalism is the way of life. These attitudes breed and preach hatred and violence for the others. This is why Europe and Europeans have such a violent history among each other and also with Non-Europeans. Irony is that these values, that accept you and let you be one with the Singaporean society, can never be the values of your home country. Over there rampant disrespect and hatred for the others are pretty much the norm. With the rise of neo-fascists across Europe, including Denmark, it is only a matter of time when you people will again start some sort of ethnic cl*ansing and g*nocide across Europe.
@leehongjin6884 Жыл бұрын
As a born Singaporean I would be happy to have someone like Dennis around here. He is certainly a wise individual who doesn't lock himself to a window.
@MrKevinliow88 Жыл бұрын
That was another amazing interview with an expat and his very positive view about life in Singapore. Thank you so much Max.
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
Thanks so much for watching!
@Ginasgusa Жыл бұрын
I am a Singaporean who migrated to the US. Yup, I get that EVERYTIME I get into an argument with anybody in the US. I guess it is how it is no matter where you are.
@GUITARTIME2024 10 ай бұрын
My wife is foreign, here in America. Not once has anyone told her to "go back", and I doubt it happened to you very much.
@henggaraed 8 ай бұрын
@@GUITARTIME2024 something not having happened in your life really is not the ultimate proof that is has never happened to anyone else. It might not be every single time but a few times, is believable.
@yrsofpain 8 ай бұрын
@@GUITARTIME2024 just cause it never happen to you it can happen to other clown ass.
@RaymondChia_Silaqui Жыл бұрын
I find it really impressive with the places you find to do the interviews. Those are places for even some of the local would not know about.
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
Thanks I’m doing my best 😁☺️
@tankenneth9915 Жыл бұрын
Looks like pearls Hill to me.
@lydiat5819 Жыл бұрын
I just found out a wonderful place a few blocks away from me and I have lived in this area for more than 20 years !!! ... smh ...
@acpanda6372 Жыл бұрын
One thing good in SG, bullies can't get away by calling the police. Even between locals, a dispute like that with one sided accusation, police will not take sides but to split the argument. However, if Dennis had evidence, he could also instead report the reckless driver to the police.
@henrihenderson4148 Жыл бұрын
As a fellow expat in Singapore for 25+ years I truly appreciate this open and candid sharing of views about living in Singapore, honest and very relatable. Well done.
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
Our pleasure!
@kwokholuk8723 Жыл бұрын
You said that you have already lived in Singapore for 25+years. So, have you got the permanent residency of Singapore ?
@henrihenderson4148 Жыл бұрын
@@kwokholuk8723 Yes of course.
@shilashilslala Жыл бұрын
An honest interview. He should have been given a PR. As a Singapore citizen myself, I am impressed by his knowledge of our diversities. This shows that he has assimilated well with the people here.
@jadendsouza8366 Жыл бұрын
he probably doesn't want to retire here?
@jeney7928 Жыл бұрын
Too expensive to live in Singapore for retirees, he said.
@rjjrjehehew Жыл бұрын
Why must need PR?
@kelvincheng5901 Жыл бұрын
But not all are as humble n assimilated well like Dennis..in recent years there's the perception the country is letting in too many foreigners who don't bother to integrate. Can't blame the citizens for feeling negative towards the immigration policy
@MOMOxDEFI Жыл бұрын
As a Singaporean born and bred here, I agree with Dennis a 100%. He's every bit an ideal Singaporean and kinda sad that hes not gotten at least a PR. My take away from this video is to never forget to look up at my surroundings everyday, try something new and be thankful that I've been presented with all these around me in my life. Alhamdulillah. We can only move forward. Majulah Singapura.
@CoreyChambersLA Жыл бұрын
PR means Permanent Residency
@jeremywck8757 Жыл бұрын
@@suhanjayalian5044 Apa hubungan identitas Singapura dengan berbahasa Indonesia? Singapura tidak pernah menjadi bagian dari Indonesia. Ketika Singapura menjadi bagian dari Malaysia, Bahasa Melayu menjadi Bahasa Nasional kami dan kami generasi tua harus belajar Bahasa Melayu. Lagu kebangsaan kami Majulah Singapura dipilih pada tahun 1959. Sejak Kemerdekaan kami pada tahun 1965, kami memilih bahasa Inggris sebagai media utama pendidikan dan bahasa kerja utama. Semua warga Singapura diwajibkan untuk belajar bahasa Inggris dan bahasa ibu mereka sebagai Bahasa Kedua. Sepanjang sejarah kita, orang Melayu selalu menikmati keistimewaan yang tidak dimiliki ras lain. Bagaimanapun, siapa Anda untuk mempertanyakan identitas kami dan keharmonisan ras kami? Anda tidak lebih dari seorang idiot yang bodoh dan sombong. What has the Singapore identity to do with speaking Indonesian? Singapore was never a part of Indonesia. When Singapore became part of Malaysia, Malay became our National Language and we the older generation then had to learn Malay. Our national anthem Majulah Singapura was selected in 1959. Since our Independence in 1965, we opted for English as the main medium for education and the main working language. All Singaporeans are required to learn English and their mother tongue as a Second Language. All through our history Malays have always enjoyed privileges not available to other races. In any case, who are you to question our identity and our racial harmony? You are nothing more than an ignorant and arrogant idiot.
@anchored555 Жыл бұрын
@@suhanjayalian5044 SG was never part of Indonesia, so why should we be expected to speak Indonesian?
@limbehh8494 Жыл бұрын
@Jeremy WCK Bro.... I were shocked too. We ...Singaporean speak Indonesian?????? Just leave him alone ya.
@kengleetan63 Жыл бұрын
Ang Mo did not know or look at things ,that the ruling party seems to be responsive to ground sentiments and will respond but Ang Mo does not know that the ruling party is good at lip service and wayang... Oh....of course...Ang Mo does not watch wayang...he only watch Netflicks!😆😆😆😆😆
@gilchristhaas9865 Жыл бұрын
That was really a wonderful interview. As an American who loves Singapore and am embarrassed about the direction my own country has taken for the past decade or so, this man’s views resonate strongly with my own.
@ordoabchao4202 Жыл бұрын
As a German who loves Singapore I feel the same...
@leongyet9896 Жыл бұрын
Good interview. As long as foreigners who contributed and can gel into local communities and not get stuck up,we welcome you!
@rjjrjehehew Жыл бұрын
No.
@peppergirlrocks Жыл бұрын
@@rjjrjehehew why?
@leongsam1075 Жыл бұрын
I like this chap! Enjoyed this interview.. and can relate to his views. Seems like a guy who had been mellowed with age.. a very good wine! 😊. Thank you and good job Max. PS: good to see your sub numbers gradually increasing. Press on max!!
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
We are working on it! Thanks so much!
@kevinwebster7868 Жыл бұрын
I’m an American and have lived here in Singapore for 18 years and have been a PR the entire time. My only issue is that locals assume I’m filthy rich. I don’t even make as much as a cab driver so no I can’t afford to just buy whatever I want. Also Singaporeans don’t seem to understand how good they have it. They think it’s expensive but Singapore is far better than other places. With my current health issues if I still lived in the U.S. I would be in so my much debt due to medical bills that my children would spend their lives trying to pay it off after I’m gone.
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
Yes, average Singaporean has much higher standard of living vs other countries. It becomes very obvious when you start traveling.
@raymondtan4261 Жыл бұрын
Thank you Dennis for speaking a candid view on Singapore. Wishing you all the best on your PR status in Singapore.
@amyg1073 Жыл бұрын
Good n honest reflection. Appreciate this kind of conversation. Sg police usually take down notes as a statement report, but treat this kind of dispute as a trivial matter that happens everyday. So no action taken
@NazriB Жыл бұрын
Lies again? American Education Teddy UFC WWE88
@riptyurass302 Жыл бұрын
Honolulu is actually probably the closest city to Singapore in terms of what it's like.
@dawnho7744 Жыл бұрын
Hey Max. This is my first time watching your channel and I want to thank you for making this interview. I really enjoy watching this episode because as a Singaporean, I get to hear how expats/PRs (in this case, Dennis) feel about living in this little red dot. It's so heartwarming to know that Dennis finds Singapore a very livable country and that he has been here for 17 years. Hope to see more of such videos soon!
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
Welcome aboard!
@matpk Жыл бұрын
@@MaxChernov RACIST RACIST ASIAN COUNTRIES NOT ALLOW FOREIGNERS TO BECOME CITIZENS😂😂😂
@crystal8537 Жыл бұрын
Very insightful. I am a Singaporean and literally just found out of ur channel and now i am watching ur past vids hahaha
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
Thanks so much ☺️
@vennsim71 Жыл бұрын
Max’s videos are very down-to-earth, and very much at grassroots level. Refreshing, to say the least.
@Sail17 Жыл бұрын
this is an example of an ang moh we like. all the best for him and his family
@georgeho8997 Жыл бұрын
Anything that goes into the system cannot be altered or erased, so writing it down on paper first allows both sides to cool off; after all, this was just a trivia matter with no casualties, so it does not need to go into the records so quickly.
@muizzanis Жыл бұрын
i like the way he described in American cities various races lived in "patches as pattern on quilt". diverse etnicities but in groups of their own whereas in Singapore diverse and mixed. similar to Malaysian towns and cities
@yktang4088 Жыл бұрын
I like this man. He is so authentic. It is amazing to hear from an American working and living in Singapore to say so many good things about Singapore.
@rickychan1727 Жыл бұрын
Great interview! Really liked Dennis's honesty and transparency. All the best to you Dennis!
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
Glad you enjoyed it!
@turtlechomper5361 Ай бұрын
My wife is Singaporean she says this guy gave very accurate answers. I am an american and have spent about 9 months total on 3 different trips in Singapore. I loved it there its a great country.
@limbehh8494 Жыл бұрын
I like dat American... his perspective of life and enjoy everything around him. He live his life well. Cool !!!
@SuperModerngranny Жыл бұрын
About the incident with the driver, please note that there have been incidents where people trying to scam 'naive' victims. Not sure if the scammers are local but I have read of such scams happened on the road. Drivers jammed break causing the car behind to crash into theirs. They then demand a ridiculous amount of compensation on the spot. In Dennis' case, he's a foreigner, so the guy tried to do so via the SPF. Of course, SPF here are not stupid enough to fall for such scams either, they will investigate.
@seabreeze667 Жыл бұрын
Maybe try interviewing Sporean from the neighborhood who are making the average national income of around S$3500?? His staying near Orchard, he should be those expatriates that Sporean are tired of hearing.
@y2kjericho86 Жыл бұрын
I like Dennis's sharing of his experience. He really does not hold back and he is very honest, straightforward and I really take my hats off to him and lots of respect to him. Its nice to hear someone who does nto hold back, its raw and real.
@lilycool2601 11 ай бұрын
Thank you, for your insight of Singapore n the people. I wish you the very best while you are still in Singapore.
@yuva Жыл бұрын
Bro, super smooth ad. Love it. Also, man got angry when someone took his chope. That alone should qualify him for PR and citizenship haha
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
hahaha definitely!
@siewtohong7138 Жыл бұрын
Very candid this interviewee. Appreciates his absolute honesty! Good job on finding those interviewees!! Keep it up!!
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
Glad you enjoyed it!
@moltenvanilla5935 Жыл бұрын
Love your videos!!❤ Thank you for sharing their views. As a Singaporean I find it so educational. Never had the chance to interact with them much❤
@aqilhomaili Жыл бұрын
The argument part where people said to go back to your country is pretty common for any foreigner living in any country as long you are reasonable and know you wrong doing I think its fine.
@Cysecsg Жыл бұрын
Doesn’t mean other places are doing means it’s a “norm”. He said “mostly” his fault, means there are time others are at fault too. No matter whose fault, there shouldn’t be any bigotry counters. It just meant they failed to win logically and resort to such tactic. It’s shameful.
@sdqsdq6274 Жыл бұрын
lol , people say hurtful words when they are angry all the time , all i can say is just walk away , as simple as that ...
@LordKarma101 Жыл бұрын
Personally i feel that the "go back to your country" is more common in western countries towards foreigners. When i was student in UK and US, i experienced the "go back to your own country Chinky" in both countries. My other friends had similar experience. Note: for these westerners, as long as you look Asian, we are all Chinks from China. I guess they don't study geography in school, as anything East is China.
@edgyguy8240 Жыл бұрын
Nice interview. Dennis sounds like a very well planted guy. All the best to you two!
@gl9795 Жыл бұрын
Almost jealous of him being able to live in my home country! And I'm here in the US (Florida to be more specific) and would love to get out of this crazy state. Thank goodness I've held into my Singaporean passport and hope in this lifetime to head back and live there.
@thumpertorque_ 8 ай бұрын
Florida is an absolute shithole just like New Jersey. Move to a different state.
@marielle3929 7 ай бұрын
@@derrickjensen1240same question
@uresfffff222 7 ай бұрын
@@derrickjensen1240 prolly money
@arfriedman4577 4 ай бұрын
Many blessings
@abbyabroad 4 ай бұрын
Yes! I grew up in Florida and live in China now. Hope you escape too and get back to Singapore.
@d4vid0110 Жыл бұрын
Truly enjoy this episode! Kind of glad to find your channel.
@mrtan1309 Жыл бұрын
Jeez.. I couldn't believe someone like him who's been working and living here for so long didn't managed to get a PR. He had clearly blended into our local culture.
@chee-liekho5860 Жыл бұрын
Perhaps he does not like to be a PR. It is "Hotel Singapura " kind of thing.
@peterkhew7414 Жыл бұрын
His retirement fund is back in the US. He has to go back eventually.
@SleepyOx2023 Жыл бұрын
Singapore's opaque PR requirements may be scary to a lot of people. Even smart people may feel they're never good enough, and hearing how others get rejected means they probably will delay as much as possible until they feel they have enough net worth to apply. The stigma from firsters is also a factor, some expats may feel they don't want to bother a bee's nest, given how easy it is to expel foreigners if they make a human mistake, even if they really really want to be a PR. Thirdly your company needs to pay CPF once you become a PR, so in a way, starting to have to pay CPF might be a consideration for the company? But expats pay the same tax rates but the benefits go to locals.
@rjjrjehehew Жыл бұрын
why you want every foreigner to get PR. suck their kuku for what?
@orzRaspberrih Жыл бұрын
@@SleepyOx2023tldr if you pump money into singapore, or if you're highly educated and want to start a family in singapore, it's not hard
@unbiasyoutuber7117 Жыл бұрын
I would love to hang out with this guy. Thanks for the honesty and we hope you earn enough to stay here longer😂
@RideTheTrack Жыл бұрын
I dont usually watch content like this (as a singaporean) but i have to say this was really well done and insightful from the both of you
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
Thanks for your kind words!
@manseb5211 Жыл бұрын
After so many yrs in Singapore he's truly able to accept the diversity of multiracial society in our city state without any feeling of alienation. With such open minded views on things here, i wish him well in the coming yrs living in our little red dot. May he find peace in his twilight yrs.
@RADIUMGLASS Жыл бұрын
People in Singapore and that part of the world advance, and will continue to advance. There is multiculturalism there, however, there isn't any one group or specific groups that are trying to dominate society.
@dreamscuba Жыл бұрын
Great interview and a very nice gentleman being interviewed. I agree with his sentiments. I am grateful to be a visitor living in Singapore for many years.
@drjennyli Жыл бұрын
The story about van driver. My god. Mind blowing. Glad local police is reasonable and Just, coz what driver is demanding , makes Singapore looks really bad.
@anchored555 Жыл бұрын
There are bad hats everywhere, not just in SG. One bad apple shouldn’t taint the whole lot.
@noproblematallmate Жыл бұрын
I think the police trying to drag out the process and make it look like they are going to do something is intentional to let both parties cool down and allow the guy who reported to feel "it isn't worth it". This is as compared to passing a judgement quickly on the spot on who is right and wrong. Chinese has a saying. Turn a big thing into a small thing. And a small thing into nothing.
@NijiKonohana Жыл бұрын
Lol you have no idea how many bad apples there are on Singapore roads, especially taxi drivers. My dad has at least three run-ins with taxi drivers who keep pushing past damages on him to get him to pay. Particularly one company that uses red taxis. I would suggest you avoid them if you can :P
@drjennyli Жыл бұрын
@@NijiKonohana 😳
@user-ht1qg9xn3ra Жыл бұрын
I incline to think that the diver himself might not realize what had actually happened.
@victimofpsychiatry 11 ай бұрын
As a Singaporean, I have to say kudos to you both for being able to stand there for hours with the (possible mosquitos) and flies 😅
@goddanner 10 ай бұрын
The interviewee is really frank and it really gave me an insight on how it feels for him living in Singapore!
@leadershipvids Жыл бұрын
I've been here for 30 years and became a citizen a long time ago... Singapore is a gem
@Faisal-cz5if Жыл бұрын
Explain yourself
@leadershipvids Жыл бұрын
@@Faisal-cz5if excuse me?!?
@graceyam1925 Жыл бұрын
We Singaporeans welcome such a foreigner who is not bias and given a good and fair outlook of his 17 good years of appreciation in this little dot with gratitude and balance view of how he sees our multicultural landscape. Thk you for such a comprehensive view of our beloved island.
@starlet88sg 8 ай бұрын
thank you Dennis. you really know us very well. enjoy your stay here.
@ahmetjank3892 10 ай бұрын
I just came across your video. You have gift to get genuin and very real story telling from people. I rarely write comments. Love your video. ❤
@MaxChernov 10 ай бұрын
Thank you so much!
@eriktiongweeseah465 Жыл бұрын
Very insightful interviewing session for people to know about SG: Dennis seems to know the local way of living--probably learnt from some locals. Also a clear-cut and straightforward answers from Dennis--with using different lenses to look at different angles of your surrounding; including sharing his life story!
@JP-ok2qd Жыл бұрын
Great interview Max. Dennis is very humble and open with his views both positive and negative! Well done!
@LeeMia875 7 ай бұрын
This video is amazing! The perspectives and information you present are very in-depth.
@user-ub8bs9js2u Жыл бұрын
It’s very insightful and the interviewee has quite a lot of experience about life.
@chroniclesofalazyriderbyde9504 Жыл бұрын
A very true outlook of my home. A very good and honest interview with Dennis.😊👍👍
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
Thank you kindly!
@charlesquah Жыл бұрын
A wonderful and honest interview!
@zephyrkhambatta Жыл бұрын
Yup, great one bro. Thanks for making this.
@davidtaiwaileong8692 Жыл бұрын
Thank you for putting this interview out. I think this is very real and more of such videos will further enhance the local fabric and bind us with new residents. This also feels real because we can also see Dennis scratching mid-interview 😄😄
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
Glad you enjoyed it!
@raclj9940 Жыл бұрын
DENNIS IS AWESOME!! thank you Max, the best content always!!!
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
My pleasure!
@TheNasa85 Жыл бұрын
Just being honest, open minded, respectful and grateful, you can live a good life anywhere on earth. And he is one of a good example.
@jacektravel1 Жыл бұрын
I agree with Dennis 100%. An true and real perspective on living in Singapore. Mysleft: 11 years here. Thanks for posting the video.
@eviegoh Жыл бұрын
Singaporean here, appreciating the candid interview and frankness! A lot of what he observed and talked about is relatable. Loving the slippers/thongs/flipflops in the grass, whatever you want to call it.. haha.
@my.business Жыл бұрын
*It's reasonable answers because he's lived her 17 years and that gives a better prospective to the questions. If you asked other PR's or so called "new citizen", you might get someone that can't speak English, has no interest to integrate with people and are here for other reason than really calling SG home.*
@thosetravelmoments Жыл бұрын
Great conversation. Wishing you both happy staying here in SG.
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
Thank you!
@Neverender3367 Жыл бұрын
I just discovered your channel and love it! I have always been interested in Singapore and I’m excited to learn more about it. Thank you for the great interview my friend.
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
Thank you so much! Where are you based? :)
@kaps3767 8 ай бұрын
I (From India) just love these kind of blokes - honest and nice human being
@Seramics Жыл бұрын
So much for advice n wisdom from this man. Thanks.
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
Glad you enjoyed it
@patientchick898 Жыл бұрын
I really appreciate this video and especially Dennis. Living in Asia has his mind opened and he say it nicely in regards to the restriction of laws. I agree with him that in general, if you are a descent human and live your life normally, majority of the law would not feel like a restriction to freedom. The only time I had encounter a police in my country was when I ride a motor bike with non standardised helmet. I got a fine. But I did not feel like my life being controlled by government, it is more like a H&S reminder. @Max, thank you for creating such content and provide an opportunity for us all in exchanging experience and learn from one another. Salut
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
Thanks so much for your kind words! 🙏
@omkar_121 11 ай бұрын
This guy really has his thoughts sorted out.
@fomoyolope3573 7 ай бұрын
Hi Max: You did a fantastic job in conducting the interview with an American expat working and living in SG. I don't know if I am able the catch the guest by his first name but his frankness and straightforwardness reflect an important element, authenticity. I was born in SG and currently reside in Los Angeles California, USA. Like your guest, I have had excellent experience about SG; love the infrastructure, people and many others. In regards to the van incident, there are street bullies in every country unfortunately. Kudos to the guest for taking a stand against a bully. The guest and I have similar options as to where to retire. I encourage viewers to explore and travel overseas; not necessarily for retirement but to stretch one's horizon. The guest made a very good point about the world; it is so big and changing.
@matsudarx8 Жыл бұрын
Thank you Max. U r helping me understand my country more everyday through different lenses. It's wonderful. It's good to have you as one of us. I have always hope that singapore can become more cosmopolitan. I think it has happened and I love it. Different cultures all in one place. I just hope that the other cultures (which are not the 4 main ones) can also take a front seat, truly making singapore a little united nations.
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
🙏
@gera.w Жыл бұрын
i really enjoyed this interview too, Dennis has very insightful and at the same time down to earth opinions which I think more people should listen to. He ought to get PR really, from his reaction to having his choped table taken away, he’s singaporeanised already 😂
@psreinc Жыл бұрын
very good and balanced interview. thanks
@Natura804 7 ай бұрын
Good positive mindset displayed by the person. I think one really understands the meaning of life when one is out of the cocoon surrounding.
@Hermit-Crab Жыл бұрын
With respect to the car and pub incident, the police had absolutely no intention to press charges and to pursue the matter. However, because they were called to the scene as a result of a complaint, they had to do something and had to be seen to be doing something. Writing down notes manually was probably a way for them to deliberately waste time and to wear out the complainant's patience.
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
Haha nice explanation
@noproblematallmate Жыл бұрын
Yes im pretty sure they are trained to resolve small issues and arguments like this. Chinese saying "Turn a big thing into a small thing. And a small thing into nothing." Its just to let both parties especially the one making the complaint to cool down.
@impopquiz Жыл бұрын
@@noproblematallmate further investigation will take more time off from the complainant or even compound the vehicle to check. If found that the complaint was false, the complainant may get charged. 😆
@sktoh4469 Жыл бұрын
Polis describing the situation in summary form should be sufficient. I suspect most polis can't write succintly so the higher ups demand every single detail. Better writing skills should be taught in schools.
@cheeseizblue Жыл бұрын
@@sktoh4469 agree with the lack of language proficiency. I have had once *needed to help the police (a NSF boy, yes a boy to me) on writing my case report. He just couldn't put it out in proper sentences. Sad much. Btw, police, not polis, in local context.
@anchored555 Жыл бұрын
Dennis appreciates what we have in SG better than some Singaporeans. Maybe we should swap them for him and give him PR😂
@lotuseletre8724 Жыл бұрын
Yes, that is like that for many in each system /society though. People naturally take what they have for granted. It would be beneficial for everyone if they would take more effort to understand the difference so that they can appreciate more what they take for granted.
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
Hahahaha
@muhammadfairuzsamsi7209 Жыл бұрын
People appreciate more when they have experienced how other countries worked.
@felix4059 Жыл бұрын
Why don't you give up your job and citizenship for him?
@corgiforever3822 Жыл бұрын
Appreciate Dennis for your valuable insight n heartwarming sharing about your pros n cons living experiences in Singapore. Well, Max has also done an enjoyable n superb interactive meeting with Dennis 👏 👏 Cheers~
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
My pleasure!
@mbnb007 Жыл бұрын
great interview, lived here 11 years and all points raised and answered are bang on :)
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
where are you now? :)
@mbnb007 Жыл бұрын
@@MaxChernov still in Singapore :)
@garamgarum4898 Жыл бұрын
IMO, SG is good if you are young, competitive, hard working and don't mind crowded places everywhere either in the city or suburbs. And to be able to live comfortably with decent quality of life, monthly income should be at least above 15K for couple without kids. (as you all know, rental prices are very expensive now). With kids will need to have much higher income.
@Jack-hy2ki Жыл бұрын
No leh. Me and my wife and 2 kids living very comfortably and decent quality of life with combined monthly income of less than 6k. We have our own house and car and eat HDL or BITP or restaurants whenever we want. Forgot to mention we travel 2 to 3 times annually.
@garamgarum4898 Жыл бұрын
@@Jack-hy2ki what I say is the amount of money that would need to stay in Singapore as an expat with expat lifestyle, not as a local who has own house. Here rental prices are very expensive which would take significant % of monthly income. Now the rent for HDB EA is SGD 4500-5000 a month. Even in suburbs far from the city, its SGD 4000+ already. I believe expats would stay in more central areas and more likely to stay in condos then the rent would be much more expensive than this. If you check current rental prices for 3 bedroom condos, you will see.
@Jack-hy2ki Жыл бұрын
@Garam garum u r assuming only they expect expat live. I have a lot of expat customers. They are very down to earth. Yes, rental is crazy now. Blame who? Our government? No lor. Blame the US keep increasing interest. Now those home owner who took bank loan suffering and therefore they return it on the tenants.
@garamgarum4898 Жыл бұрын
@@Jack-hy2ki I am not assuming. I am quoting the current actual rental prices in Singapore. And I am saying the reality. Reality is expats don't usually stay in far away suburbs. They are staying in areas like near Orchard, Novena, Holland Village etc. Be realistic, how much do you think those who come to Singapore with family and stay in those areas would need to spend in a month? Confirmed 6K is not even enough for monthly rent in those areas. Even in suburb will need at least $4000+ to rent hdb apartment (bigger ones like EAs). My original comment is regarding the amount of money that expats would need in a month. It's not about blaming anyone for insanely expensive rental prices in Singapore. FYI, according to EIU's Worldwide Cost of living index, Singapore holds record as world's most expensive city for 8 out of 10 consecutive years, including last year. This is the reality.
@coolstardy Жыл бұрын
He definitely understands the local culture very well and we welcome him as a PR.
@expat2023 Жыл бұрын
Left 🇺🇸 last year - so far so good!
@j.reneesiow9142 Жыл бұрын
U r the only person that speak the truth abt Singapore on KZfaq , most ppl that made a video abt s’pore hv either just visited us in a couple of days or weeks n nothing they said tells the whole truth. thank u for being so honest speaking abt Singapore ,
@davidwong1848 Жыл бұрын
Very well said bro😊😊
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
💯
@MyReallyOne Жыл бұрын
I am moving to Singapore from Spain and your videos are helping me a lot to understand so much about the country life. Appreciated your hard and interesting work Max.
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
Oh cool! You will enjoy the place!
@siokbeeyeo1186 Жыл бұрын
Awesome interview
@viniityap2779 Ай бұрын
You are so positive and that's an inspiration.
@pheunthai Жыл бұрын
Dennis, you are a true Singaporean Sir! I hope you get your PR here. We would be very proud and happy to have you as a part of our community. And so sorry about the stupid drivers and the stupider police here😢
@tanaesther9570 Жыл бұрын
Singapore Police is the best in the world. We are living a peaceful life because of these officers guarding Singapore be grateful.
@_dachad Жыл бұрын
@Timothy Khoo - why do put down the police here? they probably talked sense into the van driver without any inconvenience to Dennis right? i don't know if the police are issued with PDAs to record statements or not, but recording the statements accurately is important to avoid issues if the evidence is contested, hence word for word. i would not judge without understanding the circumstances.
@everythingisfine9988 11 ай бұрын
He doesn't want PR. Retirement is too expensive in Singapore. But Idaho is extremely affordable
@hogster1475 Жыл бұрын
The perception of retirement in Singapore, especially from locals from what I see. Is that they need to live in a big house and "enjoy" the life once they stop working. The reality I see from people I know is that they usually end up their selling big apartment or landed property and start to move into a small flat or apartment in an area that is also convenient for them in terms of amenities since most of them will also give up their cars. The money they made from these property sales, and also their CPF, plus whatever insurance they have bought during their work life, would be enough to see them through their retirement. Most of them "downgrade" because they are getting old, the reality is they don't need a big place to maintain. They don't need a car because public transport fares for senior citizens is cheap. They chose to stay in a convenient neighborhood because it is easier for them to access their daily necessities. Retirment in Singapore, or any other part of the world is not rocket science. As one gets older, you want conveniences and accessibility to services that you need as you grow older. If living in a "big" house and maximizing your dollar at the expense of the services and safety that one needs as they get older is more important. Just don't go complaining why the lack of efficiency in certain neighboring countries when you need access to those services.
@sktoh4469 Жыл бұрын
Downsize is the better word, not "downgrade".
@squidjames7735 Жыл бұрын
Toh … semantics
@sktoh4469 Жыл бұрын
@@squidjames7735 Certainly not.
@mattcheah69 9 ай бұрын
Awesome video guys
@hammylauw9574 7 ай бұрын
A VERY honest @ logical explanation of life in short to the point kind of way.❤
@christine8203 Жыл бұрын
A very interesting interview with Dennis; thank you for being so candid in sharing your (17-year lived-in) perspective of Singapore. People like you both are needed in Singapore to provide a side of diversity that is not possible among the locals - by that, I mean when you bring your culture, your ways of seeing and interacting, etc. to Singapore and adapt it to that of the island, the locals will see another expression of humanity, which over time, will be woven into the national fabric. I laud the leadership of Singapore! I do want to retire in Singapore…more cons than pros? I’ve been seeing only the positives! 😬
@MaxChernov Жыл бұрын
Thanks for your perspective!
@ordoabchao4202 Жыл бұрын
The only con to retiring in Sg is the cost. If you can afford housing and health insurance without income you should be fine.
@christine8203 Жыл бұрын
@@ordoabchao4202 that’s good to know. Thank you for the info.
@rgb6834 Жыл бұрын
I am in Singapore in two weeks to visit my neice who has lived there for 22 years I must ask her some of the questions you asked .
@changaiai 11 ай бұрын
The koel calling in the background lends a very Singaporean touch to the video 😂
@boonleeglobal Жыл бұрын
Great job Dennis.
@noproblematallmate Жыл бұрын
I love these interviews as a local. I love hearing people praise SG. Makes me proud 😂