The Public Order (Additional Temporary Measures) Bill was introduced in Parliament on Monday and the “Bill seeks to give police extra powers in Little India area” (Jan 21) over the next year.

Its efficacy in maintaining public order would, to a certain extent, depend on the level of enforcement and Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean said more police officers will continue to be deployed to the special zone.

Enforcement would ensure that the penalties of contravening the proposed law are meted out. Public order is thus maintained, as those who deviate from the expected behaviour, say, by carrying a prohibited item, would be sanctioned. Enforcement would also deter others.

Practical considerations, though, may be a factor in police deployment. Further, Little India would probably be an unpleasant weekend haunt if the rules were disregarded widely and we had to rely on constant policing.

Hence, in the longer term, we should strive towards voluntary compliance, based on our common interest to maintain public order and prevent another riot.

This can be achieved when people recognise their obligations, regardless of the prospect of enforcement or sanction.

This critical reflective attitude towards compliance with the proposed law could manifest in pressure among friends to conform, for instance.

To this end, we should continue engaging all the stakeholders involved.

While residents have expressed support for such measures, business owners have had mixed reactions. Perhaps targeted assistance could be given to help the latter diversify their businesses in the long term and not rely heavily on alcohol sales.

Also, members of the public should be given adequate notice so they conform with the law. For instance, announcements could be made in the MRT stations within the special zone and signs could be placed around it.

Foreign workers who are ferried to Little India should be briefed beforehand on what is expected of them and the reason for these measures.

Our top priority should be to maintain public order in the area and ensure that the environment is conducive for its residents.