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SINGAPORE, Dec 15 \u2014 A group of migrant workers went viral over the weekend after a video showed them joyfully dancing at a barbeque gathering at Pasir Ris Park, drawing smiles \u2013 and some criticism \u2013 online.<\/p>\n
The 64-second clip, posted on Facebook page Singapore Incidents yesterday that has been viewed over 76,000 times, shows five men taking turns to dance as people nearby clapped and cheered.<\/p>\n
While most viewers praised the carefree moment, some complained about the act in a public park, accusing the group of being disruptive.<\/p>\n
\u201cLike it or not, it can be seen as a public nuisance,\u201d one Facebooker who went by the name Hasni Soeb said.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Others countered, saying the group were simply unwinding on their day off, with several noting the gathering appeared to be a company barbeque supported by those present.<\/p>\n
\u201cLooks like company gathering. Let them enjoy . They don\u2019t look drunk just enjoy music and dance,\u201d Facebooker Arum Setyoningrum said.<\/p>\n
\u201cLook a like company gathering, Chinese uncle also inside the group, BBQ there,\u201d another Facebooker, Sheikh Daud Sheikh, said.<\/p>\n
Many commenters highlighted the realities faced by migrant workers \u2014 long hours, physically demanding jobs and families far away \u2014 arguing they deserved space to relax and express joy.<\/p>\n
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The debate echoes similar past incidents, with advocates stressing that moments like these reflect not disorder, but a rare chance for workers to destress and feel human in a city they help build.<\/p>\n
Singapore news outlet Stomp<\/em> reported that back in September, a spontaneous dance session by migrant workers outside the Paya Lebar MRT that was shared on TikTok also drew both support and backlash online.<\/p>\n The news highlighted the founder of charity ItsRainingRaincoats, Dipa Swaminathan, advocating the right of migrant workers to chill on their off days.<\/p>\n \u201cMany of them earn a basic wage of S$18 a day. They can\u2019t afford to go to a fancy pub and order a drink,\u201d she was quoted as saying.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n