A video circulating online has stirred up a wave of outrage after a Singaporean influencer was caught on camera berating her domestic worker over a language barrier and work speed. The incident, which took place on September 16th and was uploaded by the Regent Maid Agency, shows the influencer, identified as Ms. L, criticizing her Myanmar domestic worker for what she perceived as slow performance in completing household chores.
In the video, Ms. L can be seen documenting and critiquing the worker’s speed in completing tasks. As the video progresses, her frustrations become more evident, leading her to raise her voice, shout, and even slam her hand on the table in front of the worker, who remains silent throughout the ordeal. Ms. L’s criticism focused on the worker’s English language proficiency and efficiency, only four days into her employment.
The incident has raised concerns about the mistreatment of domestic workers, with Ms. L’s behavior displaying signs of abuse as outlined by Singapore’s ACT Against Violence campaign. These signs include overworking the worker late into the night to meet her standards, in violation of regulations that guarantee workers at least eight hours of rest, and verbal abuse highlighted by derogatory remarks in the video.
The public backlash on social media was swift and condemning, with many expressing their disapproval of Ms. L’s behavior and calling for consequences. Comments criticized her aggressive tone and lack of respect for the worker’s dignity, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and respect in a healthy working relationship. The public sentiment overwhelmingly sided with the domestic worker, denouncing Ms. L’s conduct as abusive and disrespectful.
While the influencer’s identity was not disclosed by the agency to protect her privacy, it was confirmed that she is a social media influencer. Despite her attempts to justify her actions in the video, users have called for her to face social and legal repercussions. Many have expressed concern for the worker’s well-being and called for stricter protections for domestic workers in Singapore.
The treatment of foreign domestic workers in Singapore remains a pressing issue, with organizations like the Centre for Domestic Employees and ACT Against Violence working to safeguard workers’ rights. Domestic workers, often from countries like Myanmar, the Philippines, and Indonesia, are vulnerable to mistreatment due to language barriers, isolation, and financial dependency on their employers.
ACT Against Violence has highlighted overwork, verbal abuse, and isolation as common forms of abuse experienced by domestic workers in Singapore. The Centre for Domestic Employees is collaborating with the agency to ensure the worker’s rights are respected and that incidents of abuse are addressed promptly. It is essential to uphold the dignity and rights of all workers, regardless of their nationality or occupation.
