I WAS shocked last week when I heard about Singapore Airlines' (SIA) cancellation of all flights to Bangkok, due to the shutdown of the Thai airport by protesters.

I called my friend, who was planning a short trip to the Thai capital, to inform her about it.

At the same time, we received a call from a colleague who was already in Bangkok. She said she was unable to report for work because of the flight cancellations.

The situation was apparently quite serious.

Hence, I was astonished to read about some Singaporeans' nonchalant reaction to the Bangkok protests, as reported in "Singaporeans affected" (my paper, Nov 27).

One of those interviewed was able to return to Singapore before the flights were cancelled, but she said she wished she "didn't leave", as such situations happen only "once in a lifetime".

Another interviewee said she was disappointed about the cancellation of her company's annual retreat in Bangkok.

What is going on here?

Is Singapore so safe that we need such "thrills" to make life meaningful?

What is there to feel disappointed about when we are lucky enough to live in a safe country?

Thousands of people who wanted to leave Bangkok are stuck there. They are worried about how the situation in Thailand would unfold and desperately want to get home safely.

Yet, we have people who are desperate to be there to experience the "thrill".

Has life in Singapore become so safe and dull that we need some excitement to feel contented?

Meanwhile, I would like to thank SIA, Jetstar and other airlines for cancelling their flights and giving a refund to passengers who could not get on their scheduled flights.

The airlines should be commended for making passengers' safety their first priority.

Ms Fiona Khong

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