An Australian traveller has captured a moving moment in Singapore that struck a chord with netizens. Jaden Laing, who was visiting the country, shared a video of his candid conversation with a 91-year-old man still working full time. The clip has since gone viral on Instagram for its mix of humour, honesty and kindness.
In the video, Laing casually greets the elderly worker in a bathroom, asking, “How are you?” The old man responds, “I am okay.” When Laing asks, “How’s your day?” the nonagenarian mishears it as “How’s your age?” and replies, “Ninety-one years old.”
Laing reacts with astonishment, “No way! You’re still working. You’re a man, brother.”
The brief exchange quickly turns profound. Laing asks about his daily routine. The worker explains he finishes at 7 pm after a 12-hour shift. When quizzed about health and lifestyle, his answers are equally simple, “Normal eating.” On exercise, he admits, “Never exercise.”
Laing laughs in admiration and praises him, “You’ve never exercised in your life? You’re the man.” Before leaving, Laing slips him a tip and tells him warmly, “Get some lunch. Love you, brother. You’re a soldier. Take care. Keep working hard.”
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Sharing the video, Laing wrote, “Stand up in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God (Leviticus 19:32). A powerful reminder that honouring the elderly is part of honouring God Himself.”
The video has sparked emotional reactions online. One user said, “This made me tear up, what a beautiful soul.” Another added, “At ninety-one and still working, that is true grit.” A follower commented, “The way you spoke to him with respect was touching.”
While many admired the old man’s spirit, others pointed out the bigger issue that seniors in Singapore often continue working into their later years due to financial pressures.