Kopitime: Handphone zombies inconvenience others on public transport

The use of handphones, tablets and other gadgets while on the move has become a norm.

Almost everyone, even primary school children, owns a handphone these days.

While commuting on our public transport daily, I see that many of my fellow passengers have their eyes glued to their screens - watching videos, scrolling social media pages or messaging - even when they are getting on or off the buses and trains.

This act not only inconveniences other passengers held up behind the handphone zombies, but it is also dangerous to them as they might miss a step or bump into others as their focus remains on the little screens.

There are also inconsiderate commuters who have the volume of their gadgets set to high as they watch videos or play games, and there are those who speak on their handphones loudly.

Even at pedestrian crossings, on busy streets, and in narrow alleys and crowded malls, we can find handphone zombies.

Have you noticed people focusing on their handphone more than the food laid out in front of them?

Studies have shown that the use of mobile gadgets for extended periods of time, usually while looking down, can affect the neck muscles, hands and fingers.

We all need to be more responsible and considerate users of our gadgets.

We must ensure we do not become so addicted to gadgets that we leave it to others to look out for our own safety while we keep our eyes glued to the little screens.

Muhammad Dzul Azhan Sahban