Why Bukit Batok resident wants noise sensors proposed by Govt to happen ASAP
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Noise complaints form the vast majority of neighbour dispute feedback received by agencies, said Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Edwin Tong in Nov 2024.
Noise disturbances are also a common complaint on Stomp.
To tackle the issue, noise sensors might soon be deployed in homes as part of efforts to resolve disputes between neighbours, if legislative changes to laws governing community disputes are tabled in Parliament and passed.
Stmper Randy is onboard with the idea and hopes it will come to fruition as soon as possible.
The Bukit Batok resident strongly believes it will help to protect his family.
He told Stomp: "I understand that the government is planning to introduce noise detection systems to help resolve neighborhood disputes.
"I would love the opportunity to share my personal experience, as I believe this initiative could be beneficial for many residents facing similar challenges.
"For over 15 years, my family and I have struggled with excessive noise from our neighbours, particularly loud karaoke singing and music. Despite attending two mediation sessions at the Community Mediation Centre (CMC), where they agreed to keep their door closed while singing, they eventually resumed their behaviour.
"In recent months, the situation has been quieter, but I remain concerned that it could happen again. Having a noise detection system in place could provide objective evidence and help prevent future disputes."
Randy also shared the impact that neighbourly disputes have had on his family, especially his ailing 63-year-old mother.
He added: "Beyond just the noise, there have been verbal confrontations in the past. My neighbour has insulted my mother and me, calling us 'Babi' on separate occasions.
"Unfortunately, this had a serious effect on my mother, who suffers from asthma and depression. She cannot handle emotional distress, and in one instance, the verbal insult caused her to faint.
"She has been on long-term medication (amitriptyline) for over 20 years and I worry about what might happen if another incident occurs while she is alone. As an elderly person, she also does not know how to record evidence on her phone.
"This is why I believe a noise detection system could be a valuable tool for families like mine, providing documentation when disputes arise.
"I am reaching out because I believe that sharing my experience could highlight the importance of noise detection technology in resolving conflicts fairly and preventing unnecessary confrontations. While my situation has improved recently, I know many others still face similar challenges."
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