SINGAPORE: A disturbing incident at a local play area has sparked widespread concern after a woman alleged that she witnessed a domestic helper slap a young boy in public.

The incident occurred on Saturday evening at Wan To Play KINEX, just before 7 PM, prompting the woman to write an open letter to the child’s parents via a popular Facebook group, Complaint Singapore, to bring the matter to their attention.

According to the eyewitness, the young boy was being playful and reportedly pushed the helper. In a shocking turn of events, the helper responded by spinning around and delivering a “very hard loud slap” to the boy’s neck or face. The witness expressed her shock at the aggressiveness of the action, suggesting that the helper likely intended to hit the boy directly in the face but missed.

“I was super shocked,” she recounted in her post. She emphasized that she would never allow her own helper to physically discipline her children, no matter the situation. The witness voiced her worries, highlighting that the demeanor shown by the helper in public raises significant concerns about her treatment of the boy when they are alone.

In a subsequent conversation with the helper, she noted that while the helper appeared embarrassed, she continued to reprimand the child, justifying her actions by mentioning that he had pushed her and expressing her desire to leave her employment with the family.

The situation intensified as the boy, who still needed a stroller, did not retaliate against the helper, prompting concerns about the overall dynamics of their interaction.

The woman’s heartfelt open letter served as a caution to other parents, urging them not to blindly trust their helpers. She implored parents to regularly check in with their children to ensure they are being treated well, especially if the children are of an age where they can articulate their feelings. “Do not leave your child with your helper alone for long hours without your supervision,” she advised, highlighting the importance of parental vigilance in ensuring their children’s safety.

The post quickly garnered attention, with many Facebook users seconding her sentiments. Some commenters even suggested that she file a police report against the helper. Others expressed gratitude for her courage in speaking out for the child’s welfare, hoping that her message reached the boy's parents to prevent any future incidents.

This incident raises critical questions about the supervision of domestic helpers and their treatment of children in their care. It serves as a reminder of the need for open communication between parents and their helpers, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for children. The community must remain vigilant, advocate for children's rights, and provide support for those who might be vulnerable.

Stay tuned as we explore more on this topic and other related news!