Problems that the million-dollar ministers are not solving

[True Believer]

I wonder how many rapists have entered S'pore to work as psychotherapists using fake qualifications?

 

[k1976]

 

[k1976]

I wonder how many rapists have entered S'pore to work as psychotherapists using fake qualifications?

Xia Suay Home Grown Peedo waiting to be Fixed

 

[LITTLEREDDOT]

Forum: Spare a thought for those affected by noise​

Jul 10, 2024


I refer to the Opinion piece “What price some quiet time at home?” (July 7).
People usually talk about air and water pollution, but noise pollution is no less important.
I have been harping on the issue of noise caused by motorcycles and other vehicles.
When these motorbikes or cars are driven inside HDB estates or inside carparks, the sound is amplified many times, and can even be heard by those on the 10th floor. Some riders of two-wheelers enjoy revving their machines loudly and startling the people around.
In our estate, a biker makes loud noises every morning, waking up everyone at 4.30am. He just doesn’t care about the noise he makes and the disturbance it causes.
There is no good reason why the public has to tolerate such annoying noise made by inconsiderate people.
I think it is time the authorities revisited the policies on noise so that people like us can enjoy some peace.

Ramamurthy Mahesh Kumar

 

[LITTLEREDDOT]

Forum: Have residents’ handbook outlining clear guidelines on HDB living​

Jul 19, 2024

Living in close quarters like in HDB flats can be challenging. While all residents have the right to enjoy their home, certain behaviours can infringe on others’ right to a peaceful, safe living environment. A recent example involved a resident who placed a sauna, which was later removed, potted plants and other bulky items in the public corridor (Fire safety violations found along Serangoon HDB corridor with ‘sauna’ cabin; SCDF to take action, July 16). This case exemplifies the self-entitled behaviour that disrupts HDB living.
Residents from different backgrounds and with different habits can clash, especially when some view the common corridor as their own space.
Other examples include noise pollution from loud music or noisy pets, inconsiderate bird feeding, overgrowing of plants, and chain-smoking or non-stop burning of incense that affects neighbouring units. Issues like high-rise littering, dripping laundry and public urination are also common.
The lack of clear guidelines from the Housing Board exacerbates these problems. Currently, there are no limitations on the duration or frequency of activities like smoking, incense burning, or even mahjong playing. Victims of inconsiderate neighbours often face lengthy and expensive battles with various government agencies, only to find themselves back at square one.
As HDB spaces become smaller, conflicts are bound to increase. To address this, the HDB needs to take a proactive approach. A crucial first step is a residents’ handbook outlining clear guidelines for expected behaviour and respect for neighbours’ rights. Additionally, implementing reasonable limits and timeframes for activities that cause inconvenience would promote better co-existence.
Furthermore, enforcement is essential. The HDB should consider hefty fines for repeat offenders, with flat repossession as the ultimate consequence for persistent disregard. Installing sensors to detect excessive noise or smoke can provide a more objective and efficient way to monitor compliance.
An alternative solution is redesigning HDB flats to include private or designated areas for shoe racks or other bulky items. This would free up the common corridors, giving better access to residents, especially the elderly.

Ultimately, fostering a harmonious living environment requires clear expectations and mutual respect. By educating residents on their rights and responsibilities, implementing clear guidelines, and establishing enforcement mechanisms, the HDB can create a peaceful, clutter-free environment where everyone thrives. This will benefit residents and also free up valuable resources currently spent on resolving neighbour disputes.

Chong Ling Eng

 

[k1976]

U see...say cooling measure really work wonders de woh

 

[LITTLEREDDOT]

Forum: Don’t allow 99-year HDB lease issue to remain unresolved​

Jul 22, 2024

I agree with sociologist Chua Beng Huat that the Government has an increasingly intricate and difficult task of balancing the perception of HDB flats as both public good and financial asset (Future of HDB flats: A delicate balancing act, says sociologist Chua Beng Huat, July 13).
This is especially when many Singaporeans’ savings have gone into their home purchase.
A third of home owners have capitalised on profiting through a buy-sell-repurchase cycle. I believe the two-thirds who have not acted on this strategy intend to bequeath their home to their family members.
Political leaders and Singaporeans must recognise and accept the fundamental principle of the 99-year lease for most HDB flats. The HDB will not be able to conduct the Selective En bloc Redevelopment Scheme for every maturing flat in Singapore. It is both financially inconceivable and irresponsible.
National Development Minister Desmond Lee has reiterated in Parliament that HDB flats of 99-year leasehold strike a good balance between providing a home for life, asset appreciation, rejuvenating our city and building homes for the new generation.
Though the government of the day has reaped political returns, legitimacy and gratitude from past Singaporeans who have gained much from owning an HDB flat, we should not allow the 99-year lease issue to remain unresolved.

Foo Sing Kheng