Shocking video of a Singaporean influencer berating a domestic worker for slow work goes viral

A video uploaded by a Singaporean domestic worker agency sparked outrage online after an influencer was seen berating her domestic worker over a language barrier and slow work performance. The incident occurred on September 16, when Regent Maid Agency shared a video originally sent by the employer, Ms. L, who had logged the worker's work completion times and berated the worker for her perceived inefficiency.

The incident: verbal abuse over a logbook

The video, which quickly went viral, shows Ms. L documenting and criticizing her Myanmar domestic worker's speed in completing household chores. As the footage progresses, Ms. L's frustration visibly escalates. She angrily accuses the worker of being too slow. She frequently raises her voice, eventually screaming and slamming her hand on the table in front of the worker, who remains silent and visibly winces throughout the confrontation.

Ms. L. criticized her employee's inability to meet her standards, particularly in terms of English language skills and efficiency, just four days after the domestic worker's employment began. In the video, the influencer implemented a logbook system where the worker was expected to record the tasks she completed and how long each task took. Ms L. found this system unsatisfactory and the situation continued to deteriorate.

Signs of abuse highlighted by ACT Against Violence

This incident has raised concerns about the mistreatment of domestic workers, with Ms L's behavior showing two key signs of abuse, as outlined in Singapore's ACT Against Violence campaign.

1. revision: It was reported that Ms. L forced the worker to fold clothes late at night until they met her standards, violating regulations that guarantee workers a minimum of eight hours of rest. The agency had to remind Ms. L of this requirement after the employee was deprived of adequate rest periods.
2. Verbal abuse: In the video, Ms. L.'s hostile tone, punctuated by derogatory remarks such as: “Who do you think you are?” and “My time is very short, huh?” is an example of the verbal abuse that has disturbed many viewers . The Center for Domestic Employees (CDE) has since contacted the Regent Maid Agency to resolve the incident.

Public reaction: outrage and condemnation

The video's release sparked a tidal wave of backlash across social media platforms, with internet users taking to Facebook and TikTok to express their dismay. In the comments, Ms L was criticized for her aggressive tone and apparent lack of respect for the dignity of the worker.

One comment said: “She disrespected the helper as a person.” […] Clear communication and respect are key to a healthy working relationship.” Another added: “She's already losing half her points by slamming and screaming.” A logbook doesn't show she taught anything.” The public reaction asked predominantly sided with the domestic workers and condemned Ms L.'s behavior as offensive and disrespectful.

Identity and impact of the influencer

Although the agency decided not to reveal Ms. L's name to protect her privacy, it confirmed that she is a social media influencer. Despite her attempts to use the video to portray herself as justified in her actions, the post backfired and users demanded that she face social and legal consequences. Netizens also flooded the comments section of MothershipSG's TikTok account with the name of the alleged employer.

One commenter said: “Oh my god, what’s wrong with her? She needs to be socially punished!” Another expressed concern for the worker's well-being: “The maid is someone's precious daughter. Please consider this.” Many expressed disbelief at Ms. L's behavior. Some called for stricter enforcement of protections for domestic workers.

Tackling domestic worker abuse

The treatment of foreign domestic workers in Singapore remains a critical issue, with the Ministry of Manpower and organizations such as the Center for Domestic Employees and ACT Against Violence committed to protecting workers' rights. Domestic workers, many from countries such as Myanmar, the Philippines and Indonesia, often face abuse due to language barriers, isolation and financial dependence on their employers.

According to ACT Against Violence, overwork, verbal abuse and isolation are common forms of abuse faced by domestic workers in Singapore. The Center for Domestic Workers has confirmed that it is working closely with the agency to ensure that workers' rights are protected and that such incidents are resolved quickly.