Baey Yam Keng, Member of Parliament (MP) for Tampines GRC, recently took to Facebook to address an incident involving an elderly man who complained about his free haircut during a community service event on 24 Nov.
In his post on Wednesday (4 Dec), Mr Baey explained that the man was one of 57 residents who received a complimentary trim from eight volunteer hairdressers.
The monthly sessions have become a regular community initiative since 2014, offering free haircuts to 50 to 60 residents without the need for prior registration.
According to the MP, the elderly man, unhappy with his haircut, described it as “ugly” and pointed out what he claimed were uneven sides.
Source: Baey Yam Keng on Facebook
“He made a scene, saying that we are not doing a good job and that as organisers, we should have scrutinised our hairdressers,” Mr Baey wrote.
The man also made rude comments to Aunty Jenny, the volunteer who cut his hair, suggesting she should “retire” and stop providing such “lousy service”.
Source: Baey Yam Keng on Facebook
Although Mr Baey was not present at the event due to an official trip, several residents and other hairdressers intervened and reprimanded the man for his behaviour.
The man was eventually given another trim by a different hairdresser.
Mr Baey took the opportunity to highlight the dedication of the volunteers, particularly Aunty Jenny, who has been a part of the community project since its inception.
Source: Baey Yam Keng on Facebook
At 82 years old, Aunty Jenny is a regular volunteer and often brings homemade snacks to share with others.
“I hope residents and those who come for the free haircut (and nail trimming) respect our volunteers who spent their Sunday afternoons away from their families and work to help the community,” Mr Baey urged.
He added that while not all volunteers may be professionals, they all have the basic skills and, most importantly, the heart to serve.
Although the haircuts may not always meet everyone’s expectations, no resident has complained in the past decade.
Mr Baey ended his post with a stern warning:
If you are not confident of or comfortable with the expertise or quality of service, do not come and queue up for the free service. Do not berate my volunteers.
To prevent future incidents, he has instructed the volunteer in charge to turn away anyone who disrespects the volunteers.
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Featured image adapted from Baey Yam Keng on Facebook.
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