Introduction

SINGAPORE: A young intern has taken to social media to reveal a disturbing experience that has raised eyebrows about the treatment of employees in Singapore’s corporate environment. She shared that she felt compelled to attend work while severely ill due to pressure from her company's human resources (HR) department, which had previously reacted negatively when she took medical leave.

The Intern's Experience

In a heartfelt post on the Reddit forum r/SGexams, the intern disclosed, “After taking MC the last time, the HR staff rolled her eyes and gave me uncomfortable stares. So, I reluctantly went in, despite being shivering from a fever and feeling extremely unwell.” Unfortunately, her coworkers didn't seem to care; only another intern showed concern for her condition.

Impact on Health

The intern expressed her frustration when HR became furious upon her request to leave early for her health. "Is this what I have to look forward to in my career?" she questioned, wondering if this was the norm in the Singaporean workforce. She felt fairly mistreated as the HR personnel seemed to regard all interns as "lazy and untrustworthy," a label she found unfair given her performance.

The stress of the job has taken a toll on her health; she noted irregular menstrual cycles and insomnia, fearing she might not make it through her internship. "This company stresses me so much… it feels like I am on the brink," she lamented.

Community Reactions

The matter has stirred debate in the comments section, where many Redditors have shared similar experiences, particularly in small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). One commenter advised the intern to remember that “they're your colleagues, not your friends,” emphasizing that workplace dynamics are often cutthroat, with promotions and bonuses at stake, unlike a school environment where teamwork thrives.

Conversely, some users felt the intern’s expectations were perhaps unrealistic for a professional setting. One remarked that in a corporate world, individuals must take personal responsibility for their health, implying that knowing when to take leave is essential. “You'll encounter all sorts of characters in this journey—gossipmongers and incompetent workers. Learning to navigate this is part of the job experience," he continued.

Broader Implications

This incident sheds light on a broader issue within Singapore's work culture, where employees, especially interns, often feel undervalued and pressured. It highlights an ongoing conversation about mental well-being and the necessity for organizations to cultivate healthier work environments.

Concerns About Labor Rights

In related news, concerns about worker rights surfaced again when another Singaporean employee shared online how his company denied payment for four days of medical leave, citing that it was “common practice” during probationary periods. This raises crucial questions about labor laws and employee treatment during probation.

Conclusion

As interns and employees navigate these challenges, it’s clear that the Singaporean workforce demands conversations about wellness, support, and transparency in the workplace more than ever. Will more voices join this critical dialogue, or will silence keep the status quo intact?