Singapore's Policies on Long Hair and Western Cultural Influence (1970s)
On January 9, 1972, Singapore initiated a policy denying entry to men with long hair. This measure, known as 'Operation Snip Snip,' stipulated that all male visitors required hair cut above their collar to gain entry to the country.
Rationale and Domestic Implementation
The ban was part of Singapore's broader efforts to manage perceived negative influences of 'hippie culture.' Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew expressed concerns regarding the 'insidious penetration of songs, TV, skits, films, magazines all tending towards escapism and the taking of drugs,' identifying it as a threat to the nation's youth.
Domestically, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced that men with hair below the collar, covering the ears, or touching the eyebrows would be served last in government offices. Civil servants faced fines or termination for non-compliance with hair length regulations. The government actively discouraged private businesses from employing men with long hair, and police were known to escort men with long hair to barbers for trims. Singaporean citizens returning from overseas with long hair had their passports confiscated until they obtained a haircut. Additionally, from mid-1970, men with long hair were prohibited from appearing on television.
Impact on International Artists and Music
Several international music artists altered their tour plans due to the hair policy:
- Led Zeppelin canceled scheduled concerts in Singapore in February 1972.
- Cliff Richard, The Who, Tom Jones, and Cat Stevens also canceled planned tours.
- The Bee Gees were reportedly sent home after a performance due to their hair length.
Alongside the hair policy, Singapore also banned a list of popular songs believed to contain drug references, including The Beatles' "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds" and the entire soundtrack to the musical "Hair." Creedence Clearwater Revival's "Proud Mary" was also included in the ban.
Policy Evolution
The ban on music with drug references was lifted in 1993. While the long hair entry ban was never formally revoked, its enforcement has ceased for several decades.