I do not agree with Mr Francis Cheng's view (Govt shouldn't intervene in everything; Aug 31).

Past experience has shown that we cannot rely solely on education to resolve problems of ungracious behaviour in the short and medium term. Regulation plays a significant part.

Would Singapore be a clean city now if we had not imposed a fine for littering decades ago?

To be a gracious society, ungracious practices must not be condoned.

Enforcement of rules against ungracious behaviour is necessary, especially in the early years, before the correct mindset can be developed and education efforts can see results. Peer pressure will not do the job.

Jimmy Ho Kwok Hoong