Today we continue in our famous series of Singapores undiscovered MRT species. A guide for everyone, introducing common characteristics of Singapores famous subway system in a humurous way.
Following last weeks “pole leaner“, we would like to introduce this weeks topic, “The Gatekeeper”.
(Read: The Real Singapore Zoo – MRTs Unexplored Species (Part 1))
The Gatekeeper
The common “Gatekeeper”, as we discovered him recently in Singapores (wild) MRT savannah, is a close relative to the more popular “Squall Line”, which we will discuss and introduce in one of our following issues.
Historical Origin
The reason for the “Gatekeepers” natural behaviour is originating in Singapores prehistoric period, when need for shelter and caves was the reason for roaring barbarian wars and snowstorms were eliminating any chance for survival outside any hollos and dens on at these times Singapores huge mainland. (Its rumored that the saying “Lions Den” actually originated from the prehistoric Singapore as well).
At these times of violence and pure fight for survival, the general instinct for keeping and defending personal space and room was first established and then consequently passed through numerous generations till reaching todays, so far most sophisticated species, the “GateKeppers”.
Characteristics And Behaviour
The Gatekeepers usual habit will be to enter the MRTs area, walk approx one meter inside and then stop, rest and position themselves directly in front of the MRTs inside entry areas or in such a way that there is no further reaching of the other inner regions is possible. The “Gatekeeper” will defend their space and “cave” and can usually not be convinced to give up their defending strategy for an improved space situation.
Resistance And Strategies Of Defeat
The Gatekeepers full potential will reach his climax during business and rush hours when the need for space is most urgent and the Gatekeepers species can be found at nearly every MRT “gate”. The MRTs masters have lately realized the situation and introduced several efforts of eliminating the “Gatekeepers” (including audio announcements and MRT helpers advising the Gatekeepers to move into the wagons) but..without success.
Help Is Needed
The Gatekeepers clearly a very strong and resistent species, and the solution for this problem has yet to be found. Since the Gatekeeper will most likely face the MRT “gates” to prepare for onstorming enemies, there can be made no use of gestures or starring tactics neither. If you have any advice, please let us know in he comments.
by an Asia experienced 26 year young expat living and surviving in Singapore since years!
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3 Comments for this post
Dec 16, 2008 at 12:09 pm
[...] BLOG: Singapores Real Zoo – MRTS Unexplored Species (Part 2) [...]
Jan 21, 2009 at 1:25 am
Priceless! :o)
I tried being polite. I smiled and excused myself. Only for the gate keeper to roll their eyes and move maybe three microns in either direction, still clutching to their 800 shopping bags/bulky backpacks/small paper wrapped caravans.
I find that shouting in a very loud voice EXCUSE ME, COMING THROUGH! works very well. They look at me as if it was Nian the dragon itself entering the carriage to nibble on them – and scurry for safety.
Jul 20, 2009 at 9:40 am
My husband is 6 foot 1 inch and he just walks thru the gate keepers. He says they bounce right off! :)