Attitude shift needed to spread graciousness on footpaths and roads

I read with interest the report about a woman who rode a mobility aid into a glass door at Toa Payoh Bus Interchange this month, shattering it to pieces.

Recently, there has also been a furore over the use of personal mobility devices (PMDs), which has prompted some to call for a ban.

These reports show that there is still a long way to go, not just in our infrastructure and policies, but also in attitudes towards PMD use.

It is possible for Singaporeans to develop a culture of graciousness on footpaths and roads.

All users — drivers, cyclists, PMD riders and pedestrians — are capable of showing understanding to others. By taking ownership of our roads and pavements, we create a better and safer experience for all users.

The focus of the Singapore Kindness Movement’s (SKM) Kindness Carnival on May 25 was graciousness on the roads. Kindness is a two-way street.

In the fortnight since, I have heard several heartwarming anecdotes that prove Singaporeans have the capacity to share.

Right after the Kindness Carnival, SKM received a note from Mr Ramanathan Thurairajoo, who wanted to thank a carnival vendor, Mr Anand Nair.

Mr Thurairajoo’s phone battery depleted at the carnival and he could not book a ride home. Mr Nair not only helped him and his aged parents to hail a ride, but also paid for it with his credit card. He declined repayment.

In another case, Mr Melvin Poh, who drives a private-hire vehicle, wanted to ease his passenger’s financial burden by taking him home daily for just S$10. The passenger, Mr Din, is an amputee and elderly security guard who spent half his daily wage on transport.

Owing to other work commitments, however, Mr Poh could not commit to the routine on certain days. He used social media to appeal to other drivers with spare time, drawing interest from fellow drivers as well as donations.

Despite the brickbats that private-hire car services received when they began operations some years ago, they are now an integral mode of transport for Singaporeans.

This brings hope as Singapore moves towards a greener future that relies less on vehicle ownership and more on alternative modes of transport.

In tandem with this, we can adjust our attitudes while sharing the roads and pavements with other users.