Authorities silent on viral post alleging foreign worker’s suicide due to poor conditions

A viral Facebook post detailing the tragic demise of an Indian national, known only as Ramadas, who had been employed in Singapore’s offshore sector, has gone largely unaddressed after two weeks of posting.

It raises serious allegations about employment practices in the marine industry.

Authored by a friend of the deceased, the post not only delves into the specifics of Ramadas’s death but also highlights the alleged conditions and treatment contributing to his decision to end his life.

Described as a highly skilled mechanic, fitter, oiler, and electrician, Ramadas reportedly worked for over a decade in a demanding role with no days off, according to the post.

His friend describes him as both mentally and physically strong yet outlines the severe work conditions he faced.

Furthermore, the post criticizes the compensation structure, indicating that the wages paid to these workers are significantly inadequate for the volume of work expected of them.

The friend accuses the “purely profit-driven bosses” of Singapore’s marine companies of disregarding their workers’ lives and well-being, subjecting them to “the worst living conditions and food” with no attention to their mental health.

Calling for the conscience of the maritime industry and Singaporean authorities to take immediate action, the post advocates for the formation of unions, stating that such organizations could champion improved wages, employment contracts, off days, leave entitlements, and mental health support for these workers.

The formation of associations or societies to promote the rights of migrant workers is highly restricted in Singapore. Additionally, the Trade Unions Act prohibits foreigners from forming their own unions.

The friend of the deceased highlights the invaluable contribution of foreign workers to Singapore’s growth and calls for intervention by the relevant authorities.

Despite the viral nature of the post, no POFMA (Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act) correction direction has been issued regarding the allegations made, suggesting no dispute by authorities over the claims presented.

Gutzy Asia wrote to the employer on 17 March seeking clarification on the status of the alleged employee and the circumstances surrounding his death but has yet to receive a response.