Shillong, September 25: A Chinese cab driver in Singapore has been accused of racially abusing a woman of Eurasian descent, referring to her as a “stupid Indian”.
As per IANS, the incident unfolded when Janelle Hoeden, 46, was traveling with her nine-year-old daughter in a TADA cab to Pasir Ris Street. The driver became agitated when a road was partially blocked due to the construction of a transit line, as reported by The Straits Times.
Hoeden posted a video of the incident on her Facebook page, alleging that the driver shouted at her, claiming she had provided the wrong address and directions. He reportedly said, “You are Indian, you are stupid.”
Additionally, a dispute arose concerning her daughter’s height, with the driver asserting that the child had “illegally” taken the ride as she was less than 1.35 meters tall. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) of Singapore specifies that all vehicles in the country must have booster seats or child restraints for passengers under this height for safety reasons.
In Singapore, private-hire cars, which are pre-booked, typically ask passengers about the need for booster seats or child restraints during the booking process. Hoeden can be heard in the video confirming that her child is 1.37 meters tall and expressing her awareness of the height restrictions for passengers in private-hire vehicles.
The driver continued to shout at Hoeden while driving, making inappropriate comments about her ethnicity. A heated exchange ensued, during which Hoeden clarified that she is Singapore Eurasian, not Indian.
Hoeden explained her decision to record the incident, saying, “As he was verbally abusive, I was afraid that he would start getting physical with me.” She emphasized that regardless of her skin tone or ethnicity, the driver’s comments were unacceptable and unjustified, as he invoked racial stereotypes. The incident left her child shaken.
Following public attention to the incident, Tada Singapore commented on ‘Wake Up Singapore’s Instagram post, stating that they were investigating the matter and emphasizing their stance against racism, discrimination, or abuse. Their comment read, “At Tada, we do not tolerate racism, discrimination, or abuse. Our team is investigating this issue. Thanks to everyone who brought this to our attention.”