In public school, Muslims go for religious classes, while non Muslims have Moral class. Both were given a taught about civic consciousness in these classes and through other interactions in school. Being civic minded is something we nurture as children and develop an awareness throughout our lives with hope to create outstanding and engaged citizens who are responsible in parks and public places, who don't litter and who say thank you and are polite to one another. Constantly I hear people say, 'You see, Malaysians, don't deserve nice things' when they hear stories of a group of people not respecting the rules of conduct, and I feel this too sometimes. But instead, let's try to understand each other instead. It's not an easy process, there are going to be differences, disagreements, strong emotions. But we have to try, because otherwise we are just preaching to the converted, to friends and people with the same opinion. And change and growth isn't achieved this way. Post-Covid park life is being contested all over the world. Now it's our turn. We can't turn to NZ for answers, because our mindset, climate, landscapes are different. We need to learn from others but reflect and think, what would work for us, our society, our parks. Here are some ideas I have in mind : 1) Station a few community officers especially on weekends to explain the new rules in place and get feedback from the public 2) Educate each other kindly. We can tegur menegur with hemah if we see a family not following SOPs. 3) Have more patience with each other, we're all trying. Reserve that energy for bigger fights, not with each other.
4) Fight for parks! They are a valuable resource and a testament to space being for PEOPLE. It's OUR space.
5) As a last resort, people that still cannot follow orders should receive some form punishment for their actions.
Thank you and stay healthy!