“‘American by Nationality, Singaporean at Heart’: A Longtime Expat Reflects on His Life in Singapore”

Singapore has witnessed significant transformation since gaining independence in 1965, and one expat has been a part of this evolution since the 1950s. Jim Baker, now in his 70s, moved to Singapore at the tender age of two and has called it home ever since.

In a recent 13-minute interview with YouTuber Max Chernov, Jim recounted his experiences living in Singapore long before its independence. He shared that his mother came to Singapore in the 1930s, before World War II, laying the foundation for their family’s deep roots in the country. After completing his university education in the U.S., Jim returned to Singapore in the 1970s, working as a teacher at the Singapore American School.

Reflecting on the numerous changes he has witnessed over the decades, Jim emphasized that while the cityscape has evolved dramatically, the love for local food remains a constant. “People who leave Singapore often miss the food because there’s nothing else to miss,” he remarked. “Everything else has been torn down and rebuilt, but char kway teow still exists,” he quipped, highlighting the significance of food in the Singaporean identity.

He also noted that Singapore has undergone substantial changes even in the last five years, from new infrastructure projects to the demolition of iconic buildings.

When asked why he doesn’t speak with a Singaporean accent despite his long stay, Jim humorously stated, “I can if I have to,” and added that he is proficient in Malay, recalling that it served as the lingua franca during his childhood. He remarked on the unique “Singapore form of Malay” that emerged from interactions among different ethnic groups.

In a poignant moment, Jim summarized his dual identity: “American is my nationality, but Singapore is my home.”

Another expat, Yana Fry, who moved to Singapore 15 years ago, echoed similar sentiments. Now a Singapore citizen, she appreciates the kindness of the local people and considers Singapore the least judgmental place she has lived. “I remember trying to leave every year for the first five years, but as time passed, Singapore began to feel like home,” she shared, crediting the warmth of Singaporeans for her attachment to the island.