MyTurf

On their days off, domestic helpers head to the parks

My Turf is a fortnightly series that aims to share untold stories of our neighbourhoods. In this instalment, we take a look at public parks and how domestic workers here use them as their one-stop entertainment venue.

Whether it is dancing, singing or just chit-chats, the fun places to go for many domestic workers are the parks, away from the hustle and bustle of Orchard Road. They say parks allow for bigger gatherings and they can enjoy themselves without being j
Whether it is dancing, singing or just chit-chats, the fun places to go for many domestic workers are the parks, away from the hustle and bustle of Orchard Road. They say parks allow for bigger gatherings and they can enjoy themselves without being judged. An important criterion for them is access to MRT stations. ST PHOTO: DIOS VINCOY JR
Whether it is dancing, singing or just chit-chats, the fun places to go for many domestic workers are the parks, away from the hustle and bustle of Orchard Road. They say parks allow for bigger gatherings and they can enjoy themselves without being j
Domestic workers singing and dancing at Botanic Gardens. Other popular gathering spots include Toa Payoh Town Park and open areas in Paya Lebar Crescent and Kallang, near the old airport. ST PHOTO: DIOS VINCOY JR
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From receiving beauty treatments to dancing and singing, and even worship, domestic workers in Singapore have turned public parks into their one-stop entertainment venues.

Hundreds have been drawn away from the malls and crowds in Orchard Road to parks in town, such as the Botanic Gardens, and those in residential areas like Toa Payoh Town Park.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on July 18, 2018, with the headline On their days off, domestic helpers head to the parks. Subscribe