Despite facing stigma and condescending remarks about his job as a cleaner in Singapore, 25-year-old Shahrul Nizam Suhaimi remains undeterred and content with his work. Once concerned about the negative perceptions of cleaners as low-class workers, Shahrul now embraces his role and finds fulfillment in it. He even shares his work experiences on TikTok, where his posts have gained significant attention.
According to NST, a father of one, Shahrul has been working in Singapore for nearly three years, commuting daily from Gelang Patah, Johor. His current role as a cleaner is his second job after leaving a position as a restaurant assistant. Shahrul initially took up the cleaning job to save money for his wedding last year.
"I previously ran a food business, but it didn't succeed. I decided to try my luck in Singapore, where my sister-in-law also works. I worked in a restaurant before quitting and searched for various jobs without success. After being unemployed for three to four months, I was offered a job as a cleaner," Shahrul shared with Harian Metro.
At first, Shahrul felt embarrassed due to the stigma associated with the cleaning profession, especially as a young man with 5As in his Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM). However, the job became an opportunity he could not pass up, especially since it provided a decent income. "Some say, 'Oh, he's just a cleaner,' but when they find out I work in Singapore, they start asking about job openings," Shahrul explained. Others questioned why he hadn't pursued a government position or a higher-paying job, but Shahrul remains unbothered by these comments. "As long as my income is halal, I don't mind."
He is grateful for the support from his family and in-laws and acknowledges that although he couldn't continue his studies due to financial constraints, his current job allows him to support his family.
Shahruls daily routine begins early, leaving for work as early as 5 a.m. and arriving two hours later in Singapore. His duties include cleaning office spaces, toilets, pantries, gyms, and staircases, as well as taking out the trash. Despite the physical demands of his job, Shahrul finds satisfaction in it. "So far, people here have never looked down on us. They often share food, give tips, and greet us. I'm not ashamed of my job, and here, cleaners are paid according to their qualifications," he said, adding that he earns SGD2,400 (RM8,005.80) including overtime.
Despite the societal stigma, Shahrul continues to thrive, finding both financial stability and personal fulfillment in his work. His journey is a testament to the dignity of hard work and the value of perseverance in the face of judgment.
Source: NST
