Forum: Yes, we do need campaigns to remind us how to behave

I refer to the commentary “Do we really need a campaign to tell us how to behave on public transport?” (April 21). My view is simple: Yes, such campaigns are still necessary.

This is not because people do not know what is right or wrong. Most commuters are aware of basic courtesy, to keep noise levels down, to avoid inconveniencing others, and to be considerate in shared spaces. 

However, awareness does not always translate into action, especially in the rush and stress of daily life.

Public transport is a shared environment. In such spaces, individual behaviour has a direct impact on the collective experience. Without consistent reminders, standards can gradually slip, not out of ill intent, but out of habit, distraction or indifference.

Campaigns therefore play an important role. They are not about stating the obvious, but about reinforcing social norms. A simple, repeated message can act as a gentle nudge, reminding commuters to pause and consider others.

That said, campaigns alone are not enough. True graciousness must be supported by social culture. When commuters model considerate behaviour, it encourages others to do the same. Over time, this shapes a self-sustaining norm where courtesy becomes natural rather than instructed.

In this sense, campaigns remind the mind, while culture shapes the heart. Both are needed to create a more pleasant journey for all.

Foo Siang Yian