Babies, toddlers, the aged and those who are sick (henceforth referred to as group), do not have the ability to communicate and are reliant on their caretakers to relay material facts with regards to their physical health. As such, the employers have a right to know about every incident that may cause or potentially cause harm to this group.

It is the caretakers' duty to warn the employer of such material risks. A delay in relaying the message or worse, an intentional hiding of material facts, will directly affect the physical well-being of this group and even their lives.

Although there is a lack of facts and statistics pointing to the tendency of domestic helpers hiding such material facts, it does not mean that such incidents do not happen.

I have personally encountered such incidents. I have also heard from many others how domestic helpers have hid such material facts. This happens regardless of the many assurances given to them that they will not be penalised. There just seems to be an inherent fear to admit mistakes regardless of assurances.

Hence, the state has an obligation to protect those who are not in a position to defend themselves from negligent caregivers.

I am deeply concerned that the result of the inquiry seems to implicitly drive home the message to Ms Lasini and all other caretakers that withholding material information, which affects lives, is not an act of negligence. I am even more concerned for the next person Ms Lasini will be taking care of.

Soong Heng Mei (Ms)