Not sure where the Singapore bashing comes from on HN. It doesn't sound like most people have been there, yet still comment on how strict it is.. And the bubble gum thing.. geez.. Actually, i never felt safer in any city i have been.

I think it comes from certain notions about what freedom means.

Eg Singapore is far from a democracy. I don't care much about democracy, rule of law being much higher on my list. What do I care about my vote being one of millions? A fair and predictable legal system are more important.