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No more stickers, let’s offer seats from the heart

After thinking from various angles about the matter of priority train seats, I have come to certain conclusions. (“Encourage good behaviour instead of shaming bad conduct”; July 29).

After thinking from various angles about the matter of priority train seats, I have come to certain conclusions. (“Encourage good behaviour instead of shaming bad conduct”; July 29).

First, many people avoid these seats for fear of being stigmatised. On many occasions, a cabin is crowded and those seats are empty although there are no old or disabled people around.

Second, kind-hearted people would give up any seat on the train. Those in need can be anywhere, and not only near the designated seats.

Third, some may offer their seat unwillingly, just to avoid hostile looks, which is why they do not offer a smile. Young people, too, can be tired and need rest or sleep after a long day of work or classes.

Offering to give up one’s seat should come from the heart, not as a duty or out of fear. In the eyes of foreigners and tourists, those reminder posters might be indirectly saying Singaporeans are like children who need educating. All those reminder stickers should, therefore, be removed. Let people decide based on their hearts.

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