Introduction

In a recurring issue that has drawn attention online, commuters on Singapore's MRT continue to defy the no-eating and no-drinking rules, sparking outrage and prompting a creative response from SMRT.

Rule-Breaking Behavior

Recently, Stompers have been vocal about their indignation, sharing photos of rule-breakers on various social media platforms. One commuter, Joshua, snapped a picture of a young couple blatantly standing next to a sign prohibiting food and drinks. He pondered, 'Has our society become so entitled to break the law?'

Another Stomper, known only as ‘K,’ captured a scene of a young man enjoying a can of Monster Mango Loco between his legs, while yet another anonymous poster spotted a young couple comfortably sipping from plastic cups on the train. The majority of the offenders appear to be in their early 20s, leading to questions about the awareness and respect for shared public spaces.

SMRT's Creative Response

In an attempt to engage with the younger generation, on November 11, SMRT launched a light-hearted TikTok video focusing on 'gracious commuting.' The video, scripted by a Gen Z intern, is filled with trendy slang and humorous observations that resonate with younger viewers. Lines such as 'You know you are cooked when you don't give up your seat for others' and 'If you're really nonchalant, you wouldn't be eating and drinking in our train. You better lock in,' are designed to entertain while conveying important reminders for proper conduct on public transportation.

Impact and User Engagement

The video quickly gained traction, amassing over 35,000 views. It wasn't just the views that captivated users; the comment section lit up with relatable humor, as one user from the SG Bus Models TikTok account quipped, 'Hello, I am commenting on your video to tell you that we have added infinite aura into your bank.'

Conclusion

The challenge of maintaining a respectful commuting culture remains prominent as these incidents highlight a growing disconnect between public expectations and the behavior of some young commuters. While SMRT strives to promote adherence to the rules, their creative approach on social media may serve to bridge the gap between authority and the youthful spirit of today’s generation.

Could this be the start of a new trend in public communications? Will we see more companies embracing humor to connect with the younger audience? One thing's for sure: the conversation on commuting etiquette is far from over!