In Singapore's shopping malls, walkways and footpaths, pedestrians can be observed walking on the left, as well as on the right, making a simple walk a meandering one to avoid collision.

This may be because of the amalgam of nationalities and cultures here - Americans and those who come from countries where people drive on the right side of the road continue to do that here, while those from countries like Britain, where people drive on the left side of the road, stay on the left.

It does not help that some escalators in shopping malls use the American system while some use the British system. Sometimes, both systems can be seen on escalators within the same building.

At East Coast Park, where I take weekend walks, pedestrians are oblivious as to which side of the path they should be using.

The signboards in the park are also unclear. They read: "Stay on the right track." Does this mean the right side of the track or the correct track?

Where I come from, in Malaysia, the walking and cycling etiquette on paths is quite clear - you always use the left side.

The party on the left side has the right of way; anyone approaching from the opposite direction who inadvertently strays into your side gives way without a fuss.

I hope the authorities here can clear this up with some form of written etiquette which pedestrians and cyclists can observe to ensure a peaceful walk or ride.

Leong Eng Yee (Ms)