Commentary: Move in, give way - the everyday acts that shape a better Singapore

Small, everyday decisions significantly influence the kind of society Singapore is becoming, according to SUSS's Victor Seah and Leslie Chew. These seemingly minor choices, made in seconds by millions of commuters, collectively determine whether public transport runs smoothly or becomes a source of frustration.

The authors highlight concerns raised by commuters in a recent survey, including a reluctance to move further into crowded trains and a lack of consideration for those needing seats. Similar frustrations exist among drivers, reflecting a broader challenge in fostering a "we first" society, a concept emphasized by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in his National Day Rally speech. He urged Singaporeans to prioritize shared responsibility over individual interests.

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Whether we achieve that ideal depends less on grand gestures than the small, repeated decisions people make in everyday situations.

Achieving this ideal hinges less on grand gestures and more on consistent, considerate actions. The authors suggest that a lack of contribution often stems not from a lack of care, but from the inconvenience or vagueness of taking the first step. Simplifying processes, such as one-click volunteer sign-ups or pre-filled forms, can encourage greater participation. Examples like the myResponder app for volunteer first responders and the "Change for Charity" initiative demonstrate how small changes can facilitate civic engagement and community support.

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Singaporeans to look beyond individual interests and take shared responsibility for one another.