WHEN running late for an event or appointment, Malaysians are fond of texting “I’m on my way” to the rest in a WhatsApp group.
The truth is that they aren’t even close to their destination and, in other cases, they have not even left their house.
Why is that we try to make it seem like we were on time when we are not? Sadly, for some, that is the norm.
And, when they finally arrive, instead of apologising or owning up that they left home late, they give all sorts of excuses, such as bad traffic, difficulty in finding a parking spot, heavy rain or an accident happened on their way to the venue.
In other words, the latecomer is telling the rest of the group that it is not his fault that he is late, but circumstances beyond his control contributed to his tardiness.
Foreigners cannot comprehend why Malaysians would say, “Give me five minutes”, when they mean 15 or 30 minutes.
Guests turning up late for Chinese dinners are so common that no one raises an eyebrow.
We should not make others wait for us, because making others wait is stealing other people’s time.
Being on time is a habit that needs to be cultivated and nurtured from young. Yes, it has to start from home and school, and it has to be led by example.
Make it a point to discipline yourself to be punctual and not make others wait.
DR POLA SINGH
Kuala Lumpur