Singaporeans have a bad reputation overseas (and let's face it, domestically as well) of complaining about every single thing and being absolutely crass about it. Well, today, allow me to join the ranks of those ugly Singaporeans and complain.
Sometimes, I really don't understand.
Why is it that Singaporeans still don't seem to have any sense of courtesy or common sense?
Here's what I've noticed in the 3 or 4 months that I've had to commute with the rat race pack...
1) People still can't stand to move into the middle of the train cabin. If your stop is only one stop away, I might still be able to forgive that, but then why are you taking the train in the first place?
2) You want to stay right in front of the doors? Fine. At least step out for a moment at the stations to let people behind get out of the bloody train. Blocking the entrance of the train not only prevents people from getting in or out, but it ultimately just causes more discomfort to yourself because you end up getting pushed about, elbowed, scratched by sharp files, stepped on, etc., etc... Seriously, is it worth it?
3) Human tailgating. Why? Just keep a comfortable distance between yourself and the fellow in front at the ez-link gantries. What's the point of sticking 1-inch close to the guy? The gantries themselves will reflect an error if ez-link cards are scanned at too-close intervals. Also, if the guy in front gets an error, he has to step back or go to the service counter. Tailgating him blocks his way, and just results in your foot getting stepped on (or stabbed, if it's a woman in heels) or a similar thing happening to the person behind you if you step back too suddenly. (Also applies to anything that requires staying in line)
4) Keeping left on the escalators, especially during rush hour. Is that really so difficult? Allow me to explain something simple. The right side is the "Express Lane". Just like driving on the roads!! If you're not rushing up or down the escalator, please, please, PLEASE keep to the left. If you're on the right-hand side and suddenly realize that there's a queue of disgruntled people behind you and no-one in front of you, take a hint and either start walking or move aside.
Oh, and hold on to the bloody railings. If somebody does bulldoze down the escalator, it's better to be safe than sorry.
5) Could people STOP cutting in front of a queue and pretending that the person behind doesn't exist? Also, stop trying to insist that you were in the queue before, but just stepped away for a moment, so therefore you have the "right" to take back your spot. I'm sorry. If you've stepped out of the queue, you've STEPPED OUT OF THE QUEUE. There's a reason why it's sometime known as "KEEPING IN LINE". Quit whining and queue up properly. If it's so dire that you absolutely need to pay for your groceries first, at least ask if people are willing to let you go ahead.
6) Phone manners. Erghs.
I dare not even think about it.
