SINGAPORE:

In a recent post that has sparked widespread debate on social media, an 18-year-old dental assistant from Singapore shared her alarming experience of working 66 hours per week for a meager take-home salary of just S$1,590. She took to Reddit on October 21 to voice her concerns, questioning whether her situation is normal within the demanding hustle culture of Singapore.

The young woman, who works as the only support staff at a dental clinic, is responsible for a myriad of tasks beyond her official job title. Not only does she assist during dental surgeries, but she also manages orders, inventory, and even handles a variety of administrative duties after the clinic's receptionist left unexpectedly. Her daily schedule is grueling: she wakes up at 6 am, commutes for over an hour, and often finishes her shift around 7:30 pm, returning home by 8:20 pm. This exhausting routine goes on from Monday to Saturday.

She expressed her frustration over the lack of a proper lunch break, describing it as a rushed experience that occurs at random times due to the clinic’s continuous operations. “My duties cover literally everything,” she lamented, showing signs of burnout.

Growing up abroad has left her feeling uncertain about local employment standards. “Is this normal? Are these hours and this pay typical here?” she questioned, highlighting the contrast between Singapore's fast-paced work environment and her own well-being.

Many commentators from Singaporean Reddit communities immediately sympathized with her plight, pointing out potential exploitation in her role, especially since her employer is a family member. “If your family member does not value you enough to pay you well, don’t feel bad about leaving,” advised one user, encouraging her to explore the market rates for dental assistants instead.

Suggestions flooded in for her to consider her future seriously and possibly seek a pay rise or reduce her hours. Questions like whether the job aligns with her long-term aspirations were raised; one user asked her to reflect: “Is this job helping with your degree or future career? If not, prioritize your well-being.”

As she gears up to prepare for university applications, she plans to reduce her work hours come November, feeling torn about leaving so that the dentist, who is her family, won’t be alone in the clinic.

This story sheds light on an ongoing concern regarding youth employment in Singapore, particularly within the healthcare sector, where similar experiences could be more common than one might think. As the conversation continues, it remains clear that many in the community are concerned about the boundaries between family and professional obligations, as well as the need for fair treatment and compensation in the workplace.

Could this be a wake-up call for employers to reassess their treatment of young employees?

Only time will tell.