On the morning of Oct 23, I saw two men arguing over smoking at a bus stop.

The older man was smoking at a corner just outside the bus stop, next to a green rubbish bin.

The younger man, who was carrying a baby, told the older man that he could not smoke there.

The older man insisted he was not committing any offence and refused to stop smoking or move away, causing the younger man to become more agitated and aggressive.

The National Environment Agency (NEA) might want to consider drawing borders on the ground at bus stops, and include a no-smoking sign with the amount of fines for smoking within the boundary.

This will clear up any misunderstandings and make it easier for smokers to know where they can smoke.

It would also be good for members of the public to visit the NEA website to find out the dos and don'ts, if they want to help enforce the rule against smoking in restricted areas.

For instance, they cannot take things into their own hands by being aggressive, raising their voices or laying hands on the other party.

They must be equipped with skills on how to approach someone in a friendly manner and how to deliver their concerns in an educative way.

Additionally, they have to learn to leave the person alone and give him time to reflect if he is not receptive to them.

It will do no good if they take a commanding approach and expect the other party to listen. Aggressiveness and loud tones cannot be tolerated or deemed acceptable.

Sim Beng Tiong