I notice that Singaporeans lack of civic mindedness in the society. Through their daily actions, I can see that Singaporeans short of the right moral values, they want the best for themselves and do not care about the welfare of others. I find it disappointing to see such awful behaviour.
For instance, I can see how Singaporeans really lack of civic mindedness when travelling on public transport. I often do not see Singaporeans giving up their seats to the elderly, reaching out a hand to assist the elderly in movement, or helping the disabled people, pregnant ladies, or elderly. Back in 2006, I was a primary three student who travel to school by train. I remember clearly that I witnessed an ugly scene. Upon, reaching Newton station, there were only two empty seats left. An old and fragile lady with many grocery bags was walking towards one of the seats and was preparing to seat down, to give herself a rest. Before she could even react, a male teenager sat down on that particular seat and began playing his handphone games, not paying attention to his surroundings. When she turned around and prepare to sit at another free seat, a young lady sat down, snatching away her chance of sitting down. No other commuters offer her any seat or ask the two young Singaporeans to stand up and give away the seat. The old lady, who looked tired, had to stand for three stations before a seating commuter aligns.
From this incident, it proves how unpleasant young Singaporeans’ actions were. In my point of view, that was a severe case, where they literally do not care for others. They wanted to get a seat for their own good. It is shameful to say that Singaporeans indeed have poor moral values and social awareness.
However, I believe that there are ways to change Singaporeans’ poor behavioural problem, becoming a citizen that is civic minded. The education ministry can educate the young on how to be a civic minded person, through talks and hands on activities in school. Also, relevant ministries can consider frequently organising campaigns with the theme “civic mindedness” on the streets of Singapore. It will remind Singaporeans to include civic mindedness act in their daily actions.
In conclusion, Singaporeans need to think about their ugly actions and reflect upon it. I do not think that Singaporeans will forever lack of civic mindedness. They just need to realise their mistakes, and change for the better.