Forum: Don’t lose sight of basic courtesy and hygiene in shared spaces

I support initiatives that encourage people to be responsible for the public spaces they use. However, two everyday observations make me question whether responsibility is being placed in the right hands while basic standards are being overlooked.

First, the tray-return initiative. It is commendable, but should not become an expectation that diners also clean their own tables. I have seen diners use the same tissue they clean their snot and mouth with to also clean the table, although with good intent. 

Also concerning is what happens to some returned trays. Trays can contain bones and food residue spat out by some diners. These trays are then taken to the waste-return station, lightly wiped and put back into circulation.

Returning trays is one thing, but what happens to the returned trays is another. Operators must remain responsible for maintaining proper hygiene standards by cleaning and sanitising them before the trays are used by other patrons.

Second, public-transport etiquette needs greater attention. I recently encountered schoolchildren occupying the front part of a bus and refusing to move in despite there being passengers queueing to board. The bus captain opened the rear door for passengers to board, but I eventually had to ask the students to move in, and received disgruntled looks in return.

This may seem like a small incident, but such behaviour becomes a bad social habit if not addressed.

We often speak about building a gracious society. Courtesy, however, cannot depend solely on goodwill. Where repeated disregard for others persists, clear rules, reminders and appropriate enforcement should reinforce the expected standard.

Shared spaces require shared responsibility. I hope the relevant authorities will review these practices and ensure that cleanliness, hygiene and consideration are not merely encouraged, but properly upheld.

Lim Lee Leng