Published in ST Forum
THERE was a stampede at the launch of a new smartphone in Central Jakarta in November ('BlackBerry maker's woes in Indonesia'; Dec 13). In Singapore, there was a long queue for the launch of the Bedok Residences condominium ('Bedok project draws long queue, but...'; Nov22).
We have also experienced long queues for primary school registrations and for tickets to popular events.
The system of queuing for priority is archaic, poses hygiene and social problems, and could lead to disputes and disorder.
We need to have a more practical way of allocating priority. All interested parties could be given sufficient time to register their interest before a closing date through an online system. The priority could be decided by balloting or drawing lots through an electronic system that can be verified to be transparent and fair.
It should be possible for such an online system to be shared by any organiser, replacing the queuing system. The authorities may have to step in to promote such an alternative arrangement for the sake of transparency and orderliness.
Tan Kin Lian
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