A Singapore private-hire driver’s week-long grind has stirred a wave of public concern after he revealed earning more than S$4,000 by clocking 47 Grab trips daily and working up to 15 hours at a stretch. The viral post, shared widely across social media, showcased his Diamond-tier status and a breakdown of S$4,002.30 in weekly net earnings from 271 completed jobs.
Grab Drivers Growing Concern Over Long Working Hours
The driver’s results might look impressive at first glance, but the reactions from the public have been anything but celebratory. Many Singaporeans expressed worry that such extreme hours behind the wheel could compromise road safety and personal health. Several commenters pointed out that sustaining 14 to 15 hours of driving daily leaves little time for proper rest, family life, or recovery.
Others shared stories of friends and relatives who had attempted similar work patterns, only to face severe fatigue and long-term health issues. Some even highlighted the increased risks associated with drowsy driving, urging fellow motorists and gig workers not to chase short-term gains at the expense of safety.
Debate on Earnings Versus Expenses
Despite the headline figure of S$4,002.30, regular Grab drivers were quick to remind the public that gross earnings often paint an incomplete picture. Rental fees, fuel costs, maintenance, insurance, and personal healthcare expenditures can eat significantly into take-home income. As some commenters noted, a driver earning S$4,000 a week could still face substantial weekly overheads, reducing the actual profit far below what viral posts suggest.
Others argued that such earnings are only possible through unsustainable “chionging” and should not be perceived as representative of everyday results. A few experienced drivers added that some Diamond-tier accounts are shared between two drivers, though Grab prohibits such practices.
Public Reaction and Growing Pressure on the Gig Economy
The reaction online has shone a light once again on the demanding nature of gig work in Singapore’s private-hire sector. While platforms like Grab offer flexible earning opportunities, many workers feel compelled to stretch their limits to achieve higher-tier rewards and incentives.
Commenters also raised concerns about the long-term health implications of sitting in a vehicle for extended hours, joking darkly about hospitals and coffins becoming the eventual beneficiaries. Several urged the driver to prioritise rest and reconsider his routine, warning that no amount of income is worth risking one’s well-being.
As Singapore’s PHV fleet continues to grow, the debate over sustainable earnings, work-life balance, and road safety is expected to intensify. The viral post may have showcased a striking weekly income, but it has also ignited a broader conversation on whether such figures should be celebrated—or viewed as a cautionary tale in the gig economy.