Counting on S'poreans to keep environment clean

Counting on S'poreans to keep environment clean

We thank Mr Tan Kok Tim for his suggestion on addressing and containing the impact of litterbugs on the cleanliness of our environment ("Reward those who pick up litter"; July 5).

Everyone should take responsibility for their own litter and dispose of it in litterbins. Most do so, even holding on to their litter until there is a bin. This is positive behaviour often seen in places such as Japan.

Individuals who voluntarily pick up someone else's litter should be commended for their efforts, although most of them probably derive greater satisfaction from knowing they have made a positive difference by going the extra mile.

As we gear up to celebrate National Day, Mr Tan's letter is a timely reminder to each one of us to reflect on what it means to be Singaporean.

We can choose to celebrate the efficiency of our cleaning workforce, or be proud that we exhibit the right values to show that we have come of age. Can we all do our part to keep our environment clean?

Count on me, Singapore.

Liak Teng Lit

Chairman

Public Hygiene Council


This article was first published on July 16, 2014.
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