Written Reply to Parliamentary Question on Policy Actions and Plans to Ensure Priority Seating for Elderly and Disabled on Public Transport

Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Acting Minister for Transport 

a.     whether the Ministry has considered more robust policy action, including legal stipulations, to ensure priority seating for the elderly and disabled on public transport; and

b.     if not, what are the impediments.

Reply by Acting Minister for Transport Jeffrey Siow: 

1.     We should not crowd out gracious conduct by legislating for every desired behaviour. Besides the elderly and persons with disabilities, there are other commuters who may also need a seat due to invisible medical conditions, and it is not possible to legislate for every scenario.

2.     Our approach is instead to build a more caring commuter culture that supports a wide range of needs. Through the Caring SG Commuter Movement and publicity campaigns on gracious commuting behaviour, we have been encouraging commuters to offer their seats to those who need them more. In a 2024 survey conducted by the Public Transport Council, more than 70% of respondents with disabilities agreed that it was easier to get a seat on public transport compared to the year before. We will continue to build on this positive momentum.