SHAH ALAM - The lack of respect for priority individuals in Malaysia reflects a deeper issue of societal apathy and unawareness.
From ignoring priority signs to overcrowding elevators meant for people with wheelchairs, strollers and mobility aids, the behaviour exhibited in public spaces paints a concerning picture.
While lift etiquette is a basic courtesy, many Malaysians fail to practice it, sparking frustration among those who rely on such facilities for accessibility.
Speaking to Sinar Daily, National Unity Minister Aaron Ago Dagang recently addressed the issue of poor lift etiquette in Malaysia, describing it as a reflection of the country's deeper societal shortcomings.
"It shows that we are still an undeveloped and uncivilised country. Who is at fault? Think about it," he remarked, pointing to a lack of mutual respect and awareness among the public.
The minister emphasised that the root of the problem lies in societal attitudes rather than the absence of rules.
"No amount of rules and regulations can curb this uncivilised culture," he added.
Meanwhile, human rights and social justice activist Adrian Pereira said the root cause of the problem lies in a lack of awareness about the rights and privileges of disabled individuals.
"In general, not many Malaysians are aware of the rights and privileges of disabled people, so the awareness is very low.
"There are not many effective campaigns that educate Malaysians on the topic," he said.
Therefore, Pereira called for adherence to the United Nations standards on disability rights, emphasising enforcement.
"If it’s the lift, a security guard can be there to ensure people give priority to those listed, such as individuals with wheelchairs or strollers,” he suggested.
While education campaigns can play a significant role, Pereira emphasised that enforcement is key to changing attitudes.
"Malaysia needs to make sure its citizens follow the convention on disability rights. Education and enforcement must go hand in hand,” he said.
Linking this issue to a recent case where a hearing-disabled man was assaulted, Pereira stressed that the incident highlights society’s lack of respect for the disabled and the slow justice process.
The debate around lift etiquette recently gained traction when an X user, Aeen Ibrahim, posted a picture of signage in a shopping mall instructing priority for wheelchairs and strollers.
As a frustrated mother, she expressed anger and disappointment with the lack of lift etiquette she encounters daily.
"I bring a baby in a stroller and there are two more kids with me, but the elevator is full every time.
"What angers me most is young people who don’t have strollers or kids. Are you too lazy to take the escalator?" she questioned, calling for more consideration and awareness from fellow lift users.
Another user, Siti Mokhtar, shared her frustration with the lack of adherence to lift etiquette, particularly in priority elevators meant for strollers and wheelchairs.
"I’ve been in that situation. When I go to the priority elevator with strollers and wheelchairs, everyone makes a face and most of the people there are young couples," she said.
Many members of the public are calling for security guards to be stationed at elevators to enforce priority access and ensure proper lift etiquette.