SINGAPORE – Survey respondents in the latest Graciousness Index
said they have experienced significantly fewer acts of kindness and
graciousness in the country this year, compared to the same period
last year.
Respondents were polled in January and February 2013 about their
experiences in the last six months.
The annual study, which is into its fifth year, tracks the
perception and experience of kindness and graciousness in
Singapore. It is commissioned by the Singapore Kindness
Movement.
The index fell eight points from last year, to 53 this year -
the lowest in the five years the survey has been conducted.
Across the board, respondents who said they have been on the
receiving end of gracious acts fell from 65 per cent in 2012 to 41
per cent this year.
They also reported doing fewer acts of graciousness, dropping
from 83 per cent last year to 62 per cent this year.
However, most respondents still perceived Singapore as a kind
country and would like the society to be a more gracious one.
Perceptions of overall graciousness dipped slightly by 0.4
points, to 5.8 this year.
The study polled some 1,200 Singapore citizens, permanent
residents and long-term pass holders.
- CNA/ck
