9 MTR by-laws that everyone in Hong Kong has seen broken before

MTR Corporation has announced a review of some of its passenger rules to bring them up to date this year.

Proposed changes include lowering fines for foul language from HK$5,000 to HK$2,000 as well as exempting mobile phone ringtones from noise pollution rules. But will the changes have any effect on how we use Hong Kong’s subway system? We examine the rules that almost all of us have seen broken, and may even have flouted ourselves on the MTR.

No animals or other vehicles allowed

Cars and motorcycles are obvious ones to not bring onto trains. But bicycles, handcarts and barrows are also not allowed on railways premises. How many times on the weekend have we seen cyclists bringing their pedals to Sai Kung? And as the train gets closer to Shenzhen, handcarts are common.

Passenger slings hammock on MTR to make his very own 'sleeper carriage'

No feet on seats

Feet are not to be placed on the seats anywhere on railway premises. This likely includes toenail clippings.

No spitting

Not just frowned upon, spitting and littering can earn you a HK$5,000 fine.

No busking

Unless authorised by the MTR Corp, singing and dancing is prohibited as is playing or performing an instrument. Aspiring music stars are advised to stick to open mic nights.

Loitering to be OK, but not swearing: Hong Kong’s MTR Corporation reviews its by-laws