SINGAPORE : A survey conducted by the Singapore
Kindness Movement (SKM) has found an unhealthy level of
self-centeredness and self-absorption among
Singaporeans.
The "State of Graciousness in Singapore" survey
found a significant gap between Singaporeans' self-perception on
how they performed when it comes to graciousness versus their
perception on how fellow citizens fared.
Forty-three per cent of those polled rated
themselves high on graciousness, while only 15 per cent rated
others likewise.
General Manager of SKM, Dr William Wan, said it is the attitude
that the movement wants to change.
But he admitted that it will be a challenge because Singaporeans
are indifferent to improving their graciousness.
More than 60 per cent agreed with the statement "It is not possible
for Singapore to become a more gracious place due to the hectic and
stressed lifestyle in Singapore", while only 38 per cent
disagreed.
This year, Singaporeans scored 60 on the graciousness index,
compared to 61 in 2010 and 58 in 2009.
Overall, 48 per cent felt the level of graciousness has not
changed, 25 per cent felt it has improved, 8 per cent felt it has
declined, and 18 per cent were unsure.
Singaporeans also pointed to public transport, public spaces and
public eating places as the top three areas that needed the most
improvement in the survey which involved some 1,400 people.
- CNA/al
