The Unreliable Connectivity and Overcrowding of Public Transport: The Root of the Problem
Frustration and Disregard for Social Etiquette
Commuters refusing to give up seats for the elderly, pregnant women, and persons with disabilities on public transport could be linked in part to its unreliable connectivity, overcrowding, and poor maintenance, said MY Mobility Vision founder and CEO Wan Md Hazlin Agyl Wan Hassan. As a leader of an organisation dedicated to transforming Malaysia’s transport landscape, he stressed that passengers who are frustrated over poor services will be less mindful of social etiquette.
The Problem of Inconsiderate Behaviour
While stricter penalties for antisocial behaviour on public transport could deter inconsiderate actions, they are not the ultimate solution. Educational and cultural gaps compound the issue, stressing that without consistent behavioural modelling or integrated educational programmes emphasising shared mobility ethics, the message of civic responsibility would fail to permeate society.
Initiatives and Challenges
Malaysia has undertaken several initiatives aimed at boosting civic awareness on public transport. For instance, the National Transport Policy 2019–2030 includes comprehensive programmes to promote public education on etiquette and low-carbon transport. However, significant challenges remain, particularly in the realm of enforcement and sustained behavioural change. These have not yet achieved the deep, cultural shift required to ensure consistently respectful behaviour across the board.
A Balanced Approach
Wan Md Hazlin said that while evidence suggests that visible and well-enforced fines could modify commuter behaviour, excessive penalties risk fostering resentment rather than genuine civic awareness. He urged public transport operators and local authorities to consider launching targeted, creative awareness campaigns that leverage social media and popular culture to highlight the importance of courteous behaviour.
Practical Measures
He also suggested integrating technology, such as RFID-based alerts to notify passengers when a priority seat is needed, to remind users of their responsibilities in real time. Across the globe, several innovative strategies have fostered civic responsibility in public transport. In Bogota, Colombia, the TransMilenio system integrates extensive staff training, community engagement, and collaborative campaigns with NGOs to create a more inclusive environment.
Conclusion
The problem of inconsiderate behaviour on public transport is not a simple one, and a single solution will not suffice. A balanced approach that combines fair enforcement with penalties proportionate to an offence and initiatives to improve overall service quality and public education is more likely to result in sustained civic awareness and compliance. By working together, we can create a more respectful and courteous environment for all commuters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the root cause of inconsiderate behaviour on public transport?
A: Unreliable connectivity, overcrowding, and poor maintenance, which lead to frustration and disregard for social etiquette.
Q: What is the most effective way to curb uncivilised commuter behaviour?
A: Education and awareness campaigns, with users playing an active role in discouraging such behaviour by setting a good example and speaking up when they witness inconsiderate actions.
Q: What is the role of public transport operators and local authorities in addressing this issue?
A: They should consider launching targeted, creative awareness campaigns that leverage social media and popular culture to highlight the importance of courteous behaviour, and integrate technology to remind users of their responsibilities in real time.