In Singapore, video of engineer hitting migrant worker provokes controversy

A video showing a Land Transport Authority (LTA) engineer scolding and swatting a migrant worker at a construction site has sparked online debate in Singapore about workplace conduct and treatment of foreign labourers.

In a 57-second clip uploaded on Facebook group Complaint Singapore, a man is seen berating a migrant worker about not buckling his seat belt. The man then hits the worker on his helmet with the latter’s driving licence while pointing it at him and grilling him about what he learned at driving school. He later slams the licence on the ground.

The worker, who has his hands behind his back, mumbles “sorry” and lowers his eyes while the engineer is heard saying: “What did the school teach you, first day [sic], tell me! What did the school teach you? No need to buckle, is it?”

LTA said on Monday that it was aware of the incident involving its engineer and the staff of a contractor, which happened on August 21 at the Changi East Depot worksite for the coming Cross Island MRT line.

“While the engineer was addressing safety lapses at the worksite, the manner in which he did so was inappropriate. We do not condone such behaviour,” the authority said.

“The engineer has also been counselled and reminded of the standards of conduct expected of all staff. He has expressed regret for his actions and has apologised to the staff involved.”

It added that it would continue to reinforce the need for respectful and professional behaviour when upholding safety standards.