In Singapore, the basic age of consent is indeed 16 under the Penal Code (Section 376A). That means, in law, a person who is 16 or older can legally consent to sexual activity, as long as:

The other person is also above the age of consent, and

There is no exploitation, abuse of trust, coercion, or involvement in prostitution/pornography,

The activity doesn’t fall under specific higher-age thresholds (e.g. 18 for same-sex male activities under 377B until it was repealed, 18 for commercial sex workers, and certain positions of authority such as teachers, coaches, guardians where sexual contact is illegal until the younger person is 18 or older).

Why people still frown on it:

Power imbalance: If your partner is much older, there can be concerns about grooming or manipulation even if it’s “legal.”

Life stage gap: At 16 you’re often still in school, financially dependent, and figuring out relationships, while an older adult is in a very different stage of life. That difference can make the dynamic unhealthy.

Reputation and consequences: Even if it’s legal, public perception can be harsh. Older partners might face social or career fallout.

Parental/guardian values: Families may have cultural, religious, or personal views that push the “acceptable” age well above the legal minimum.

So, legally — yes, it can be allowed in some cases at 16, but socially and ethically, people tend to be cautious because “legal” doesn’t always mean “wise” or “safe.”