Foster culture of courtesy among commuters

I REFER to the report “Freedom to travel with LRT” (The Star, July 13; bit.ly/3RggMhU). As a person who is over 61 years old, I would like to commend the writer for highlighting how retirees and senior citizens are benefiting from the Shah Alam LRT line.

I have travelled on the line from Bandar Bukit Tinggi in Klang to Kuala Lumpur and back on two occasions. From Bukit Tinggi, the journey takes almost an hour to Bandar Utama in Petaling Jaya, and about 45 minutes to the Glenmarie 2 station in Shah Alam.

I was pleased to see many senior citizens making good use of this convenient service. But I also observed an issue that deserves greater public attention.

During peak hours, especially after 4.30pm when commuters are travelling towards Klang, the trains become very crowded.

The priority seats designated for senior citizens, pregnant women, passengers with young children and persons with disabilities are frequently occupied by younger and middle-aged passengers, none of whom look disabled or pregnant.

Despite regular announcements reminding commuters to offer these seats to those in need, many do not do so.

While providing modern public transport is important, fostering a culture of courtesy and consideration is equally essential. Commuters must be encouraged to show respect for those who genuinely need priority seating.

BAHBINDAR SINGH

Bandar Puteri, Klang