Ardeedee says
govt that cleaned up the area - the police and others .
Did it all the time when I lived in Singapore and continue to do it when I visit Singapore which is at least once a year. In the early 70s, after midnight I would fequently ride a motorcycle (Norton) through the back lanes of Chinatown to sample a new culture that was totally foreign to me at the time. Not once did I feel threatened or uneasy.
Of course, like in any large city I was cautioned to avoid certain areas frequented by gangmembers armed with bearing scraperw and acid filled light bulbs. The only incident I have ever suffered was having stones thrown at my bike while I rode the gauntlet through the village of Bukit Timah (at the time nothing more than a predominantly muslim malay kampong. Singapore has changed dramatically since those days and you can walk anywhere knowing you will be safe.
I even witnessed a stabbing rest in Bugis Street where, following the stabbing, vendors and clients alike set upon the culprit, disarmed him and held him for the police who were but 30 seconds away.
That wouldn't happen in Australia. The crowd will more than likely side with the perpetrator and attack the police.
Ardeedee, you should get out more and sample your fine city - many Asutralians have and will continue to.
