'It's embarrassing': Netizens criticise MOM's appreciation coins for migrant workers in sinkhole rescue

New Paper

30-07-2025

Netizens are questioning why authorities have not done more to reward the efforts of the migrant workers who rescued a woman from the Tanjong Katong Road South sinkhole.
A thread posted on the r/Singapore subreddit captioned "That's so sad, wish they were given something more useful", featuring a video of Minister of State (MOS) for Manpower Dinesh Vasu Dash presenting commemorative coins to the workers, has quickly gained traction.
Mr Dinsh, who paid a personal visit to the workers' dormitory on the evening of July 27, said the coins are a small token of appreciation that goes a long way in recognising the contributions of migrant workers in Singapore.
The coins, presented in red boxes and akin certificates of commendation, are similar to those given to four migrant workers who helped rescue children from a shophouse fire in River Valley in April.
'It's embarrassing': Netizens criticise coins
But many commentors on the Reddit thread expressed frustration and disappointment over the gesture.
One called it "embarrassing", suggesting that the workers should have been given something more official, such as formal certificates that could support them in future job applications.
Others questioned why the workers were not offered something more practical such as cash or vouchers.
"Does this coin mean anything to the workers?" one asked, adding that a monetary reward, even if modest, "would mean the world to them".
Should good deeds always be rewarded with money?
While public sentiment appears to have been largely critical, it also raises a broader question: should good deeds be rewarded with money?
Associate Professor Tan Ern Ser, a sociologist at the National University of Singapore (NUS), told The New Paper that he believes it is "inappropriate" for acts of bravery or civic responsibility to be routinely rewarded with cash.
Financial incentives and rewards like cash gifts "could undermine the intrinsic rewards of helpfulness," said A/P Tan.
Financial support is what workers value: IRR
Local charity ItsRainingRaincoats (IRR) recently launched a fundraiser that has since exceeded its target of raising $70,000 for the migrant workers involved in the sinkhole rescue.
In an interview with The New Paper, IRR founder Dipa Swaminathan said she believes financial support is what the workers truly value, and is "incredibly proud" of the amount raised.
Ms Swaminathan also highlighted the emotional significance of the support: the validation the workers would feel, and the goodwill such gestures could foster. "It would be tremendous for them," she said.
MOM had not responded to TNP's queries as of press time.