Malaysian Worker’s Complaint About WFH From Johor Bahru Sparks Backlash
A Malaysian man who expressed frustration over Singapore’s workplace rules has found himself at the receiving end of widespread criticism online. The individual, who had been hoping to secure a job in Singapore, complained that he was not allowed to work from home while staying in Johor Bahru. He further argued that Malaysians employed in Singapore should be entitled to the same benefits as citizens, including flexible work arrangements.
His comments, which surfaced in an online discussion forum, quickly went viral. He lamented the daily commute and suggested that Singapore employers were being “unfair” by not granting remote work privileges across the Causeway. Some users noted that his demands came across as entitled, given that Singapore’s labour laws and employment benefits are structured primarily for citizens and permanent residents.
Netizens Mock ‘Spoilt’ Demands
Instead of sympathy, the man’s complaints drew sharp rebukes from both Singaporeans and Malaysians. Many mocked him for “wanting the best of both worlds” — earning Singapore wages while enjoying the lower cost of living in Johor Bahru — without recognising the responsibilities and legal framework that come with working in another country.
One commenter bluntly remarked, “If you want equal benefits, then become a Singaporean. Otherwise, don’t complain.” Another pointed out that numerous Malaysians have willingly crossed the border daily for decades without expecting special treatment. Some even compared his attitude to that of a “spoilt brat”, accusing him of being ungrateful for the opportunity to access higher-paying jobs.
The Bigger Picture: Jobs, Wages and Fairness
The incident has reignited long-standing debates about job competition and wage disparities between Singaporeans and Malaysians. While Singapore employers often hire Malaysians due to their willingness to accept lower wages for certain sectors, resentment occasionally surfaces when foreign workers are perceived to push for benefits that citizens themselves may struggle to obtain.
Employment experts noted that cross-border work involves legal, logistical and taxation complexities, which make permanent work-from-home arrangements across countries impractical. As one HR consultant explained, “It’s not just about Wi-Fi access. Employment laws, insurance coverage and even data protection come into play. Demanding WFH across borders is simply not realistic.”
For now, the man’s remarks have done little to win support. Instead, the backlash underscores how sensitive issues of jobs, fairness and entitlement remain in Singapore, especially when foreign workers are seen to make demands beyond the norm.