What is meant by common courtesy? Greeting people you know politely and offering your seat to the elderly on public transport count as examples. These seem to be simple acts but it is surprising that people in this city don't practise them.
Being too busy to be polite is not a good excuse. It's true that Hong Kong is a city of hustle and bustle. Yet does this mean we should push people to get in a lift, or push onto a crowded train before other people get off?
This type of behaviour is in no way justified. People in Japan also have a fast-paced lifestyle. However, their behaviour is far more polite than ours.
We are all capable of being courteous. Not only does it cost very little, courtesy also helps build a more civilised and pleasant society. What are you waiting for? Hopefully for someone else to get off the train in front of you ...
Yvonne Tam, Hang Seng School of Commerce
From the Editor