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Straits Times
13 hours ago
- Politics
- Straits Times
Forum: Encourage more people to attend public court hearings
During a recent visit to a State Courts public hearing, I was the sole member of the public present, which highlighted a striking gap in public engagement. This prompted me to consider why open court hearings – crucial for transparency and public trust – are rarely attended in Singapore compared with other countries. Singapore's courts provide hearing schedules through an official online portal, allowing users to search months ahead. Most hearings are open to the public, except for sensitive matters held in camera. Despite this, public attendance remains low. I wonder if the issue stems from limited public awareness or more fundamental barriers to access. While basic online guides exist and the daily hearing information published on the portal is concise and accessible, I believe legal literacy remains a key challenge. The volume and detail of hearing schedules can be overwhelming for those unfamiliar with legal processes. Descriptions of hearings are also often worded in ways that are difficult for laypersons to follow. Despite reading the available online information before arriving, I still found the procedures unclear and had to seek guidance from court staff on how to observe the hearing. Clearer communication and continued public education can strengthen engagement and support open justice. Signage at courts could also be further enhanced to encourage greater attendance. With thoughtful improvements, courtrooms can become not just places of justice, but also spaces of learning for an engaged and informed public. Ethan Tan More on this Topic Forum: What readers are saying Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
Straits Times
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Straits Times
Forum: Raise standards for private driving instructors
M any learner drivers in Singapore turn to private driving instructors (PDIs) for flexibility and lower costs. While many PDIs are patient and committed, a minority tarnish the profession by belittling learners, dragging out lessons, or giving vague instructions that slow progress. For national servicemen and students on tight budgets, this isn't just frustrating – it can feel exploitative. Some booking platforms impose basic standards and collect reviews, but participation is voluntary. Many instructors operate independently, without consistent expectations or accountability. Unlike driving school instructors, PDIs are not held to a central code of conduct. Misconduct can be reported to the Land Transport Authority (LTA), but only through a generic feedback form that is not widely publicised or tailored for such complaints. There is no centralised complaints process, no official registry of licensed PDIs, and no public review system. Many learners are unsure where to turn to when problems arise. From May 2024 to April 2025, first-time pass rates were lower for private learners (28 per cent for Class 3, 37 per cent for Class 3A) compared with school learners (39 per cent and 52 per cent respectively). While the difference isn't dramatic, it may reflect uneven instructional quality. Driving is a serious responsibility. If we expect high standards from drivers, we should hold instructors to the same. More can be done to ensure transparency, protect learners and uphold the professionalism of PDIs who do the job well. Ethan Tan More on this Topic Forum: What readers are saying Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
