Singapore Cab Driver Fined for Hurling Racist Insults at Passenger* Singapore, December 19: A Singaporean cab driver, Peh Boon Hua (54), has been fined SG$3,000 for using racist insults against a passenger during a dispute over the drop-off location in September.
The incident, captured on video and shared on social media, showed Hua shouting offensive remarks, including, “You are India(n), I’m Chinese… You are the very worst kind.” Hua pleaded guilty to using insulting words causing distress under the Protection from Harassment Act.
The argument unfolded when the 46-year-old Eurasian descent passenger disagreed with Hua about the drop-off point. As tensions escalated, Hua directed racial slurs at the passenger, assuming her to be Indian.
The victim, a Singaporean Eurasian, recorded the incident on her phone, prompting Hua to face charges. Deputy Public Prosecutor Sheldon Lim emphasized the unacceptable nature of Hua’s racially charged insults and stressed the need for a sentence that serves as a deterrent against such behavior.
Although Hua had no prior criminal record and expressed remorse by pleading guilty, the court considered the severity of his actions. In response to the incident, Tada, Hua’s cab company, suspended him and subsequently announced his permanent barring from working as a driver for the company.
Tada condemned the driver’s remarks, stating that they violated the company’s community guidelines and ethos. The court’s decision and Tada’s actions aim to send a strong message against racial discrimination, emphasizing Singapore’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and respectful society.
