It is not appropriate for civic and political groups in Hong Kong to burn effigies and masks of founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong ("'Free Amos Yee' event at Hong Lim Park"; yesterday).

Such an irresponsible and disrespectful act is nothing but interference and should not be condoned as it may fan the flames of hostility, which can only aggravate matters.

As Singaporeans are better educated and pragmatic and can judge for themselves where domestic affairs are concerned, they can resolve issues through peaceful means.

In other words, we do not need to resort to demonstrations and protests and slogan shouting, which people usually do whenever they are disenchanted with social and political reforms in their respective countries.

We must avoid regressing to a situation where it becomes the norm to stage protests to voice disapproval and unhappiness over issues that can be discussed and resolved peacefully and calmly.

What is initially supposed to be a peaceful demonstration may turn violent and can have dire consequences, resulting in property damage and lives lost.

This has happened in Bangkok and Hong Kong.

Singaporeans should pride themselves on not interfering in contentious issues that arise elsewhere from time to time, as they respect the sovereignty of each country.

We trust others will accord us the same treatment.

Jeffrey Law Lee Beng