SINGAPORE:

A 29-year-old Myanmar domestic worker, Hsu Yee Mon, was sentenced to one year in jail for the shocking abuse of a one-year-old boy under her care. The incident, which took place last July, involved Hsu striking the child in the face while attempting to feed him dinner, resulting in visible bruising on his cheek and lips.

The Disturbing Incident

According to court proceedings held on January 21, Hsu struck the boy multiple times, also pressing on his stomach and delivering a punch to his chest during the feeding. At the time, the toddler was unwell, and his parents had decided to leave him at home with Hsu instead of taking him to daycare.

The court heard that the abuse was captured on CCTV footage, showing the boy's reaction. After Hsu slapped him, he would briefly tilt in his chair, narrowly missing a wall. This revelation drew gasps from the audience in the courtroom, highlighting the severity of the incident.

A Calculated Cover-Up

Following the attack, Hsu attempted to cover her tracks by applying sugar to the child's injuries to conceal the evidence from his parents. When the boy’s father returned home and viewed the surveillance footage, he immediately noticed the abuse and reported it to the police. Hsu maintained her story, claiming that the boy’s injuries resulted from a fall.

The Deputy Public Prosecutor (DPP) Darren Ang emphasized the vulnerability of the one-year-old, stating, “(He) was entirely defenseless against Hsu Yee Mon,” and argued for a lengthier sentence due to the “highly aggravating” nature of her actions.

Remorse and Sentencing

During the sentencing, Hsu expressed her remorse through a translator, claiming she lost control of her anger. She pleaded for leniency, emphasizing her role as the sole breadwinner for her two children and aging parents. Yet, District Judge Shaiffudin Saruwan was unswayed, asserting that Hsu's behaviors were “egregious” and indicative of a significant breach of trust.

Under Singaporean law, Hsu faced a maximum penalty of eight years in prison and up to S$8,000 (approximately US$5,890) in fines for the crime of ill-treating a child. The one-year jail sentence reflects the court's commitment to prioritizing the safety and protection of vulnerable children.

A Wake-Up Call for Caregivers

This case has sparked discussions about the responsibilities of domestic workers and the importance of monitoring those who care for our most vulnerable populations. With rising incidences of abuse, advocates argue for stricter regulations and training for caregivers to prevent such horrifying incidents from occurring in the future.

As this story continues to unfold, many will be left wondering about the measures in place to protect children from harm, and what more can be done to ensure their safety in the hands of caregivers.