These limitations notwithstanding, this is the first study that has systematically studied AMI outside UK. Based on rigorous methodologies, a different factor structure was identified among the Singapore sample, which indicates potential cultural differences between Western and Asian populations in their perceptions of mental illness. It also has a large sample size with a good overall response rate (71.1%) which is representative of the general population. Lastly, before applying the questionnaire to the local population, necessary changes were made based on cognitive interviews to ensure its comprehension and local relevance.