While it would be ideal for passengers to greet bus drivers when boarding, as suggested by Professor Tikki Pang (Some simple courtesy goes a long way; March 17), it may not be feasible to do so, especially when buses are packed during peak hours.

At such times, one's main concern would be to board or alight quickly and efficiently.

Notwithstanding this, I have nothing but respect for drivers who greet passengers when they board and even thank them after they tap their ez-link cards.

But I am also saddened that many whom the drivers greet do not return the courtesy.

It will be a long journey to the day when passengers greet drivers; and customers at hawker centres greet and thank the food sellers or the cleaners who clear the tables.

I put it down to our hectic lifestyle and also the general attitude that as long as one pays for a good or service, one is entitled to it, with no need for a thank you.

But there is hope. In the past, people on trains hardly gave up their seats. Now, it happens frequently. Can we, similarly, promote courtesy towards drivers and other service staff?

Low Siew Hua (Ms)