Colorful priority seats promote courtesy on Ho Chi Minh City metro trains

The initiative marked the launch of the ‘Metro Culture’ campaign, led by the youth union of Ho Chi Minh City Urban Railway No. 1 Co., Ltd., the operator of the metro line.

The campaign encourages passengers to adopt polite, respectful habits while using public transportation, starting with small but meaningful gestures such as giving up seats to those in need and maintaining public order.

“I noticed the colorful priority seats as soon as I got on the train,” said 63-year-old Nguyen Thi Anh, a resident of Thu Duc.

“They are very eye-catching, which makes it easier for people to remember to offer them to those who need them. 

"It’s a simple change, but it makes the elderly feel respected.”

The effort has been welcomed not only by older passengers but also by younger commuters.

“Metro line No. 1 is very modern and clean. If everyone lines up, keeps the place tidy, and gives up their seat when necessary, it will make the ride more pleasant for everyone. The bright priority seats are a great idea,” said Tran Minh Bao, a junior at the Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and Education.

A representative from the operator shared that the seat makeover is more than just a visual change, but it is a message of urban empathy and shared civic responsibility.

The ‘Metro Culture’ campaign will include further efforts to shape public awareness and behavior such as messaging on in-station screens, offering a handbook on public etiquette, and holding a special metro culture day for the community.

“We hope every resident becomes a cultural ambassador,” the representative said.

“Our goal is for the metro to be not only technically advanced but also a space of civility and mutual respect.”