Saturday, August 15, 2009
Singapore
What does it mean to be Singaporean? Having a pink identification in your wallet/purse? Owning the red colour covered passport? Singing Majulah Singapura everyday in school?
Over the years, the definition of being Singapore has changed from the legal requirements to other less favourable etiquette.
When was the last time you went to a FnB outlet in the Central Business District, and didn't find a packet of tissue paper at the corner of the table? The concept behind it is simply to show that this seat is taken, by a tissue packet no less. Outrageous as it may seem, but it is a rampant practice.
How about when you're out shopping or having dinner at a nice restaurant, and you here a raised voice, "I'm a paying customer!" and a long list of reasons comes out from the mouth on how he/she should be treated.
Remember those days in primary school, going through Civics and Moral Education or 好公民? We were taught to give up our seats to the needy, to give way where necessary, but the way I look at it, it's this generation of youngsters that are not all doing the right thing? Must we really be a typical Singaporean, and be afraid to lose out? There doesn't seem to be much that we stand to gain by being afraid to lose out.
We need to change the mindsets of the younger generation. It's really not just about the giving up of seats, giving way where necessary. There needs to be change to not make the Singaporean an ugly citizen of the world. All this is definitely easier said then done. Everyone needs to play their part I guess. I am merely stating my views, and doing my best to not do any of this. I have to admit, that I am a culprit in some cases too. We're all human, but being human is definitely no excuse. Overtime change can and will take place.
Posted by charles at 6:13 PM