Rules- A Lifetime of Regret

I took this picture a few nights ago inside the toilet stall of a local bar/club.

Here in Singapore, all criminal activity is taken very seriously and there is a prominent “Low Crime Doesn’t Mean NO Crime” campaign.  Taking a drink of water on the metro or a bus nets you a $500 fine.  As does carrying durian on public transportation.  Smoking indoors will cost you $1000.  Chewing gum is also illegal.

Passengers flying into Singapore on the budget airline Tiger Airways are greeted with a message similar to this, “Welcome to Singapore.  The time is 4:20 in the afternoon.  The weather is sunny and 34 degrees.  The penalty for drug crime is death.  Please alight the plane safely and enjoy your stay in Singapore.”

Even considering all of the above, I found the “Lifetime of Regret” poster extreme.  I hate being groped by strangers as much as the next lady.  However, I would hardly think the police need to intervene as I a perfectly capable of telling off a douche-bag by myself.  More disturbing though, is the thought of police intervention on a desired advancement or wanted interaction.

I don’t want the modesty police interfering with my choice of wardrobe or choice of companion.  I want to feel safe while I have fun, but I don’t want to feel monitored as I have fun.  Apparently, I don’t really have a choice in the matter.