Just the other day, I was rushing to meet someone, and as I got off the MRT, I was dreading the long ride on the escalator, expecting to say 'Excuse me' multiple times. However, to my delight, I had a smooth sprint up, as everyone was either already standing on, or had moved immediately to, the left once they saw me climbing up the steps. This practice is common in many countries, and is even a law in England, and I was glad (and thankful) that it is making its way to Singapore.

Also, these days, simple acts of courtesy, such as opening a door to let someone pass through first, or saying 'Thank you' when a person holds the lift for you, is a common sight. Singaporeans are definitely becoming more aware of others and are being more kind and thoughtful. These small acts show that Singapore is not what it used to be in terms of character, and that the Government campaigns of enforcing courtesy are not completely lost. And who knows? Maybe Singaporeans are taking the initiative themselves.

Varsha Krishnan (Miss)