By Miss Maureen Foo

IREFER to the report, "HDB unit to build social ties" (my paper, Nov 3).

Singapore has tarried on the building of a community-relations department to strengthen social bonds among Housing Board residents.

Hence, the activation of the newly set-up department should be accelerated.

Problems endemic to HDB living run the gamut of inconsiderate acts. These include the hanging of wet laundry that drip, loud talking and drunk behaviour at void decks and parks deep into the night, playing ball games at void decks with loud screaming, and the noise levels of getai performances.

If residents remain passive about the problems that plague them and do not speak up or take necessary action, these problems will not be solved.

In addition, the tardy response of police to residents' complaints, especially with regard to recurring problems, needs to be changed.

Regulations on noise levels for getais and the cut-off time for performances must also be relooked. Noise from getais is still too loud and the performances' cut-off time of 10.30pm should be brought forward.

I urge the HDB to activate the Community Relations Department swiftly. After all, HDB chief executive Tay Kim Poh said that Singaporeans need to go beyond mere home ownership, and have a sense of belonging to their community.

A tripartite alliance involving the department, the police and residents' committees should be formed to make this
move a bona fide and effective one.

I am certain that taxpayers will lend HDB their hearty support when their woes are eradicated finally.

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