Mongil, a 44-year-old Bangladeshi construction worker, has been working in Singapore for eight years to support his family of six. However, a workplace accident caused by a supervisor’s actions has left him with a knee injury that permanently hinders his ability to work.

The Accident and Its Aftermath 

In April 2023, Mongil’s supervisor had an argument with another co-worker. In a fit of anger, his supervisor kicked a metal container weighing 4-6 KG at the co-worker; however, it hit Mongil, who was having his meal nearby. Mongil was struck in his right shin, causing bleeding and injury. Despite initial treatment, Mongil was later diagnosed with osteoarthritis in his right knee, a condition that has significantly impacted his ability to return to work. His company has since stopped providing him with the necessary medication and pay, leaving him to bear the cost of his treatment.

Mongil’s Struggle for Compensation 

Although Mongil has been given light duty assignments and MCs between April 2023 to February 2024, he has yet to receive his entitled MC money since June 2023. He has filed a WICA claim with MOM to seek compensation for his injury and unpaid wages, but the process is still ongoing, leaving him without income.

Ray of Hope is fundraising to support six months of Mongil’s living expenses ($350) while he awaits the conclusion of his WICA assessment. 

The Weight of Mongil’s Burden

Before the accident, Mongil would tirelessly work overtime Mondays to Saturdays from 8am to 10pm earning up to $1,200 a month. He is the sole breadwinner of a family of six comprising a homemaker wife and four schooling children. 

Mongil’s inability to work and provide for his family has taken a significant emotional toll on him. He is unable to share his struggles with his loved ones back home, fearing it will cause them undue worry. The uncertainty of his situation and the challenges he faces have left him feeling isolated and distressed.

Mongil’s future remains uncertain as there is no cure for osteoarthritis; treatments can only alleviate symptoms temporarily. The post-traumatic arthritis that resulted from his supervisor’s negligence will cause him pain permanently. Mongil now experiences swelling, pain, hot flashes and weakness in his right knee. He lacks the strength to climb stairs and feels pain if he walks for longer than 20 minutes. This greatly impacts his ability to return to construction work.

Despite his injuries, Mongil maintains a positive outlook on life and continues to engage in dormitory activities, such as a pottery workshop and a recent sponsored outing to Mandai Wildlife with fellow migrant brothers.

Your support will help alleviate his financial burden and provide him with the means to recover and reunite with his family. Support Mongil as he awaits his WICA compensation and seeks a new path forward.