I used to eat alone, shop alone, doing many things alone. One day (four years ago), I happened to talk to an elderly cleaner at the food court as I was alone having my lunch. I asked her why, at her age, she still had to work when she could easily relax and enjoy herself at home or going out with friends.
She told me her children were married and moved out, leaving her and her husband at home. She has to come out to work and make some money for themselves. Furthermore, she cannot bear to ask for money from her children, as they, too, are not earning much and have children to feed. Once after work, she has to get home to look after her husband as he had a stroke a couple of years ago and now has a problem walking. So he stays home and watches TV the whole day.
On the bright side, she makes friends at work, which is also a form of exercise. But a cleaner’s job at such an age is no easy task. She had to stand or walk the entire day. Bending to clean the tables and carry stacks of bowls and plates is hard work. She also told me that they must work quickly to clean the tables. Otherwise, the supervisor will come after them. This is not some relaxing job.
Her story saddens me, and I hope that one day, these old folks can get better jobs and not have to clean tables and push carts any more. They helped build the nation in their younger days and deserve better jobs than this.
I appreciate the hard work put up by these elderly cleaners. They remind me of the samsui women of the old days. It is a pity to see such a situation in 1st world country Singapore, a smart nation. Sigh.
William Kho
William Kho was a senior management staff member of a water treatment company. He is now fully retired and pursuing a happy and meaningful retirement life.
