Forum: A caring and gracious commute cannot rely on infrastructure alone

We thank Dr Shaun Ho for his letter “Set aside more MRT seats for seniors and those with mobility needs” (April 2).

We see a positive trend among commuters, with many giving up their seats when they encounter others who need them more. For those who do not give up their seats, it could be because they have a genuine need themselves, despite appearing capable of standing. Others may be focused on their own activities, while some may notice but hesitate to offer, worried they might misjudge others’ needs and cause offence.

Often, all it takes is for the commuter in need or other commuters around him to request a seat politely. Most commuters do rise to the occasion.

It is also important for us to establish social norms and improve awareness, to avoid such interactions leading to conflicts and arguments. Through the Caring SG Commuters Committee, public transport agencies, operators and community partners have been working with schools and community groups to build understanding that not all needs are visible, and that small acts of consideration make a real difference to daily commuting.

Practical tools also help. The Helping Hand card, for example, allows commuters with hidden needs to discreetly signal messages such as “May I have a seat, please?”, reducing uncertainty for both parties.

A caring and gracious commute cannot rely on infrastructure alone. If commuters are not prepared to give up their seats for those who need them more, no amount of reserved seating will be enough. A shared understanding that it is acceptable to ask for help, and for others to respond willingly, will go a long way in making public transport more inclusive for all.

Leow Yew Chin
Chief Executive
Public Transport Council
On behalf of the Caring SG Commuters Committee