I follow this Bengs for dummies. Still alot to learn
How to be a classy and educated “Ah Beng” in Singapore
If you want as to survive being an “Ah Beng” in Singapore, you got to upgrade and become the new generation “Ah Beng”. The new generation “Ah Beng” still possess some qualities handed down from the old generation, such as the hair-dying and aggressive way of talking, not the mention the swag in their walking styles. But unlike the old generation, the new generation “Ah Beng” can be classy and educated so as to keep up with the dynamic and ever-changing landscape of Singapore, but yet retain their “Ah Beng” style.
So think of the new generation “Ah Beng” as Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. Classy and educated on one hand; “Ah Beng” on the other. And this is how you can become like them too:
1) When staring or speaking at others, don’t be so overly aggressive to the point whereby every word of yours makes people feel like you want to fight any moment. Instead, be confidently aggressive in both your tone and stares. The objective is to intimidate him with your tone rather than your fists
2) During work, dress appropriately and professionally but after work, change back to your “Ah Beng” style.
3) Obviously, you need the all necessary “paper” qualifications, such as a Degree, Bachelor’s or even a Master. Who says “Ah Beng” cannot have a master degree in their repertoire.
4) Hang out in all the high-class or “atas” places regularly. And of course, get yourself a “high-class” Ah Lian girlfriend.
5) Instead of swearing in just Hokkien, you can swear in profound English (F*** does not count) and even better, in other languages such as Korean, Japanese, Russian, French etc. This shows that you are definitely more educated and well-versed in various languages as compared to the old generation.
6) Most people become “Ah Bengs” because they feel that they cannot do anything right and is generally a failure in life. As a classy and educated Ah Beng, you can still maintain your Ah Beng attributes but make sure to be successful in your own right. For instance, you have a decent job with good salary; you hold a relative position in whatever company you work at; you have a small business of your own etc.
7) Get yourself a hidden tattoo and make sure the tattoo look “atas” or “cool”, instead of the old generation “dragon and tiger” tattoo.
8) Make sure you can keep up and stay relevant with current affairs in Singapore, and have a decent general knowledge about worldly affairs and international news.
9) Unlike the past where things relied on weapons and fists, nowadays, it is all about technology. So, be tech-savvy as it will make your “ah beng” activities more convenient and advanced.
10) He has the right connections and contacts on both the “white and black” sides of the law. So, depending on the situation, he knows which side to call for. He also goes to many socialising events and have the contacts of some “powerful” people on his mobile phone.