Elderly Couple’s Lunch at AMK Hub Interrupted: A Call for Compassion in Policy Enforcement
Imagine witnessing your frail elderly parents, in the midst of a long-awaited lunch, hurriedly leaving to avoid a potential fine of up to $500.
This was the reality for Chen Zhenxing on 11 Nov, as he dined with his mobility-challenged parents.
His father, aged 86, and his mother, 75, both rely on personal mobility aids (PMAs) for their daily movement.
They visited the Ang Mo Kio (AMK) Hub for lunch at Xin Wang Hong Kong Cafe, located on the second level of the mall.
The mall’s designated PMA parking area is on the first level, but given the difficulty in accessing the second level, Chen’s parents parked their PMAs near the concierge on the second level, ensuring they did not obstruct any pathways.
Incident with Security Guard as Meal is Served
According to Chen’s interview with 8World, around 3.20 pm, they settled in for their much-anticipated lunch.
Just as they began to enjoy their meal at about 3.45 pm, a security guard approached them, requesting the PMAs be moved to the first level.
Chen argued that if his parents could easily navigate between levels, they wouldn’t need PMAs. He requested that they be allowed to finish their meal before moving the PMAs, but the guard persisted, issuing a parking advisory notice after a brief negotiation.
Worried about a fine, Chen’s parents opted to pack their lunch and leave.
Even the restaurant’s waiters encouraged them to eat slowly and not stress, but the fear of a fine prevailed, and they rushed to re-park their PMAs.
Difficulty in Exiting the Restaurant
Chen’s TikTok video shows his parents, aided by two young individuals, struggling to exit the restaurant. They carried almost a full takeaway meal, indicating how little they ate before the interruption.
One of the helpers is heard in the video saying, “The elderly can hardly walk, yet they are asked to climb stairs.”
Chen mentioned that living near AMK Hub, his parents often brought PMAs into the mall without issue.
He understands the security guard was doing his job, but suggests the mall could be more accommodating to the elderly, considering the aging population and prevalent mobility issues.
Watch the full video here:
@laihengong76 #singapore #singaporetiktok #amkhub #xinwanghongkongcafe #ageing ♬ original sound – 来兴旺
Varied Reactions Online
In less than a day, Chen’s TikTok video amassed nearly 200,000 views, eliciting mixed reactions.
Some empathised with his situation and criticised AMK Hub’s handling of the incident, while others supported the security guard’s adherence to mall regulations.
Critics argued for more compassion in enforcing rules, whereas supporters feared that exceptions could lead to rule abuse. It was noted that most malls do not prohibit the use of wheelchairs.
Some questioned why Chen didn’t move the PMAs for his parents.
In a follow-up video, Chen addressed these comments, emphasizing that the PMAs are approved by the Agency for Integrated Care (AIC) and comply with Land Transport Authority regulations.
@laihengong76 #人口老化 #singaporeaging #aging #singapore #singaporetiktok ♬ original sound – 来兴旺
He reiterated the need for greater societal compassion and understanding towards the elderly, who, despite appearing physically capable, may still face significant challenges.
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