HK people need crash course in politeness

Hongkongers have become very impolite these days.

It is heartwarming but rare to see children thanking minibus drivers when they disembark from the vehicles. Their parents must have taught them well.

Few pedestrians respond when I greet them in the streets in the morning. Few passengers are willing to give up their seats to the aged or those with disabilities on a crowded bus.

Few hold the door for the next person when they enter or exit a building or the lift. Few in the service industry such as shops or cha chaan teng serve with basic etiquette. Few treat visitors with extra care or attention. What has happened to our city?

Hongkongers are simply too busy. Most are heavily engaged in what they do. They cannot spare any attention for anything else. They are unhappy, too, due to a range of unsolvable problems.

Being polite is a necessity, not just for children, but youngsters and adults, too. It implies the person respects everyone around him or her. It also shows one is aware of one’s surroundings and is not just focused on oneself.

If we are more polite to each other, an air of harmony will prevail. Visitors will have a better impression of the city, too.

Few in Hong Kong are aware of the importance of politeness these days. For youngsters especially, it is not even seen as an issue.

To raise awareness of this issue requires concerted efforts. I suggest the authorities run a citywide campaign with promotional activities on the topic.

Now that we are all set for more policies that improve general livelihoods, this is one suggestion that can be considered seriously.

Jacqueline Kwan, Sai Ying Pun