IF you’ve been scrolling through Threads lately, you’ve probably seen a post that sparked a heated debate about something most of us use every day, the lift.
It began when a user claiming to have plantar fasciitis argued that “the lift is a public facility, not a stroller priority lane”, adding that “everyone has an equal right to use it, and priority is a matter of social courtesy, not legal entitlement.”
Her comments struck a nerve.
Parents with strollers, elderly users and those with disabilities quickly responded, saying that while lifts are indeed for everyone, common sense and empathy should still come first.
The discussion soon grew beyond one post. It became a bigger reflection on public manners, social awareness and how Malaysians treat each other in shared spaces.
So, to help everyone navigate these awkward lift moments a little better, here’s a friendly reminder of what we’ll call “Lift Etiquette 101”, because getting from Ground to Level 3 shouldn’t require a full-blown argument.
1. Priority is courtesy, not entitlement, but don’t forget courtesy exists
Yes, the lift is a public space. But being considerate doesn’t mean you’re giving up your rights, it means you’re practising basic manners.
Parents with strollers, elderly people, wheelchair users or anyone with mobility issues often don’t have another option. Giving them space or letting them board first isn’t about entitlement; it’s about empathy.
If you’re in no rush, step aside and let them go first. It won’t cost you anything, but it’ll mean a lot to someone who truly needs it.
2. Always let others exit before entering
This one seems obvious, yet it’s broken daily. Standing directly in front of the doors and trying to squeeze in before others have exited only slows everyone down.
Instead, stand slightly to the side, give passengers space to step out and then move in. Think of it like traffic, you wouldn’t drive into a lane that’s still full, right? The same logic applies here.
Plus, a few seconds of patience saves everyone from unnecessary bumping and awkward “sorry, sorry” moments.
3. Don’t judge, not all needs are visible
That person who looks young and healthy might actually be recovering from surgery, have chronic pain, or be struggling with anxiety or mobility issues that aren’t obvious.
It’s easy to assume someone “doesn’t need” the lift, but invisible disabilities exist. The best approach? Just queue, wait your turn and avoid passing judgment.
A little compassion goes a long way, especially when you don’t know someone else’s story.
4. If you can take the stairs or escalator, consider it
We get it, sometimes lifts are faster. But during busy hours, if you’re only heading up one or two floors and your legs are fine, take the stairs or escalator.
This small act helps free up space for people who don’t have the same choice, parents with children, people with wheelchairs, or anyone carrying heavy loads.
It’s not about being a hero, it’s about making public spaces more efficient and considerate for everyone.
5. Queue properly and wait your turn
Nothing triggers chaos faster than people cutting into lift queues. It’s uncomfortable, unfair, and it often leads to unnecessary arguments.
Forming a line, even a loose one, helps everyone know whose turn it is. If you see someone clearly waiting before you (even if they’re standing to the side with a stroller), acknowledge them.
Good manners don’t just keep order, they keep peace.
6. Hold the door but use good judgment
It’s polite to hold the door for someone approaching, but know your limits. If they’re still a good distance away, forcing the door to stay open can delay the lift or even trigger safety alarms.
Make eye contact or a small hand gesture to signal whether you’re holding it or not. A quick, friendly moment of communication is all it takes to avoid misunderstandings.
7. Respect personal space inside the lift
Lifts are tight spaces. Try not to crowd others, especially those with strollers, crutches or mobility aids.
Keep your bags close, avoid loud phone calls, and face forward. And if you’re holding something bulky, be mindful of where it swings, nobody wants to be smacked by your shopping bag between floors.
8. Don’t rush, push, or block
When the doors open, take a moment to look around. If someone is trying to exit, step aside. If someone’s behind you trying to get out, move first before chatting or checking your phone.
Small courtesies like this make everyone’s experience smoother, and help avoid the awkward “excuse me, can I squeeze past?” shuffle.
9. Be patient, not everyone moves at your speed
Elderly passengers or parents with toddlers might take a few seconds longer to enter or exit. Instead of sighing or rolling your eyes, take a breath and let them move at their pace.
A little patience costs nothing, but it’s a kindness people remember, and might return someday when you’re the one who needs an extra moment.
10. Remember, kindness is what keeps us civil
At the end of the day, nobody “owns” the lift. But the way we behave inside it says a lot about how we treat others in public life.
It’s not about who has the right to press the button first, it’s about creating a space where empathy, respect and common sense coexist.
So the next time you step into a crowded lift, take a breath, smile, and remember: a little courtesy can make even the smallest shared space feel bigger.
The takeaway:
You don’t need a signboard to remind you to be kind, just a bit of empathy and patience. Because whether you’re carrying a stroller, shopping bags, or just yourself after a long day, everyone’s going up together.