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In a recent and tragic incident involving the death of a woman who fell from a Housing Board block in Yishun, a grave error in reporting has come to light. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has clarified that the woman involved was a Singaporean, not a Filipino migrant domestic worker, as inaccurately reported by some news outlets. This case emphasizes the critical need for accurate and responsible reporting, especially in sensitive matters like this.
On October 12, the police received a distress call from Block 874 Yishun Street 81. A woman had fallen and was found unconscious. Despite immediate medical attention, she did not survive. This tragic incident prompted discussions about safety concerns, particularly regarding the well-being of domestic workers in Singapore.
Several articles and posts published by Gutzy Asia, The Online Citizen Asia, and Singapore Eye incorrectly identified the woman as a Filipino migrant domestic worker or a Filipino worker. These reports created a narrative that sparked concerns about the safety and well-being of domestic workers in Singapore, suggesting a lack of government oversight.
The Ministry of Manpower swiftly addressed these misleading reports. It instructed the Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act (POFMA) Office to issue correction directions to the responsible parties, which include Singapore Eye, Gutzy Asia, and The Online Citizen Asia. These outlets are now required to publish correction notices on their websites and online platforms.
The correction notices must be placed alongside the original posts, with a link to the government’s clarification, as outlined in MOM’s official statement. Correction notices were promptly posted on The Online Citizen’s Facebook page and on Gutzy Asia’s article. However, at the time of the MOM’s statement, Singapore Eye had yet to issue a correction notice.
MOM clarified that the inaccurate reporting linked the tragic incident to concerns about the well-being of domestic workers in Singapore, implying a lack of government oversight. In response, MOM emphasized that it has implemented various measures to support the mental well-being of migrant domestic workers (MDWs). Since April 2021, MOM officers have conducted house visits to engage with MDWs and their employers directly. These officers are trained to identify signs of stress and address any concerns with employers.
Additionally, MOM, in collaboration with the Centre for Domestic Employees (CDE) under the National Trades Union Congress, has established three centers for MDWs and their employers to seek advice on employment issues. It has also made it mandatory for first-time employers to attend an orientation program to understand their responsibilities towards MDWs. These measures underscore the commitment to the well-being and safety of domestic workers.
This tragic incident highlights the significance of accurate and responsible reporting, especially when dealing with sensitive topics. In the digital age, misinformation can spread quickly and have serious consequences. It is essential for news outlets and individuals to verify information before publication and, when errors occur, promptly correct them. The Ministry of Manpower’s swift response and emphasis on the well-being of domestic workers serve as a reminder of the importance of compassion, empathy, and responsible journalism in our society.
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