In a recent TikTok video, @zakattackcalii, an 18-year-old American expat now living in Thailand, didn’t mince words as he shared his rankings of Southeast Asian countries after five months of exploration.
His verdict?
Malaysia is “10 times better than Singapore”.
In the three-minute clip, he placed Singapore dead last, citing a lack of culture as the primary reason.
“I do not recommend it. There was, like, nothing to do in Singapore besides walk around and see a few things. Singapore is just so small.”
Like Disneyland – perfect but no culture
Even the iconic Marina Bay Sands couldn’t redeem his experience. Despite the architectural marvel, he found the service wanting.
“The people in Singapore were pretty nice, but I had a few experiences that were definitely not as nice. When I went up to the big, huge tower, it’s called Marina Bay Sands or whatever, the waiters and waitresses were just super rude. Like, they were just not kind at all.”
The TikToker then turned his spotlight to Malaysia, showering it with praise.
“If you are someone who wants to go to Singapore, go to Malaysia. It is very similar but like, Malaysia is 10 times better, with like, culture, better food, better buildings,” he gushed.
One of his top reasons for favoring Malaysia?
It’s a “walkable city” and, in his view, highly underrated yet more cohesive than Thailand.
Mixed reactions from netizens
The comment section of his video was a battlefield of mixed reactions. Some self-identified Singaporeans echoed his criticisms, while others questioned his judgment, suspecting his rankings were influenced by the cost of travel.
Watch the full video here:
@zakattackcalii I have been to 7 countries in 5 months here’s what I think is the best and worst! #movingabroad #thailand #bangkok #travel #leavingamerica #กรีนสกรีน
