Dec 15 2006
Manners
These days, the radio has been playing some community ads to encourage people to be more polite, have better manners. This is an act following a recent global survey that ranked Malaysia very low in manners.
The ad encouraged people to say ‘Thank you’, ‘Please’ and ‘Excuse Me’.
IMHO, to be a courteous country, it is not just about saying the 3 phrases. It is not just about what we say, but what we demonstrate in day-to-day behaviour.
When I first heard the ad, I denied the fact and disbelieve the survey results. But after thinking twice and observing more, I find myself can’t deny any more. I am actually quite angry seeing Malaysians behave like this.
Take the lift as an example. Why can’t these people let others leave the lift before they get in? Why must them squeeze in and block other people from coming out?
This is also true for public buses and trains. We always see people squeezing into the vehicles, and prevented others from getting out — hate this most especially in trains. I’ve seen people got trapped, couldn’t leave before the train’s door was shut again! Seriously, if you are not rough enough, you just can’t leave the vehicles!
Malaysians just can’t queue up. I’m not sure why. You just won’t see any queues in any bus stops. When buses arrive, people just form a large crowd in front of the door.
Malaysians seldom give up their seats for those who are more in need. I always tell people this story: there was once I gave up my seat for an old lady. Just as I stood up, a young guy behind that old lady quickly came forward and took the seat. I was so angry, staring at him, he closed his eyes pretending sleeping!
Malaysians ah Malaysians, when will you wake up, and be more courteous? Manners! Did your parents teach you this? I am ashame of this, because I also form part of this community!
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I agree. Being polite is more than just paying lip services. It’s the things we do everyday.
And about Malaysians not knowing how to queue up, that’s definitely true. Singaporeans, on the other hand, love to queue up, especially to buy food. They would think that the places with long queue means good stuff.
PinPin: Hmm… can say they are more polite or not leh? But I tend to agree stores with more patrons are better.
You see, if we go out late, all stores sold out except this particular one - it usually tastes awful - speaking from experience lah! 