Woman who begged for $5 and bought lottery tickets 'deeply distressed' by comments about her family

Someone claiming to be the son-in-law of the woman who allegedly begged a stranger for $5, then went to queue for lottery tickets has asked the public not to sensationalise her actions.

He said his mother-in-law has been "deeply affected by the verbal assault" on her family.

His statement was shared by SGfollowsall on Wednesday (Oct 25).

He recounted: "The story began with a compassionate act: A man gave her $5 when she claimed to be hungry.

"However, when he entered a nearby 7-Eleven at Joo Chiat Complex to buy cigarettes, he was surprised to find the same woman in the queue to purchase lottery tickets.

"Feeling misled, he took to the Facebook group Complaint Singapore to express his frustration, stating, 'She really is not embarrassed or scared; she cheats other people's money to gamble.'"

The man also posted photos of the woman.

Some netizens said she had every right to use the money as she saw fit after it was given to her.

But one person alleged: "This makcik is infamous in Geylang area. I kena from her once. She said she hungry, I gave her $10. Then she told me, her friend also hungry no money. So I gave another $10 for her friend.

"Then in the evening of the same day, she approached me in Bedok and asked me for money, saying she hungry. She forgot that she approached me in the afternoon earlier at Geylang. Don’t know how many people gave her money till she could recognise me wearing same clothes.

"I didn’t know she gamble away. Because of con artists like this, people wary to help those genuine cases."

The son-in-law said in the statement: "The elderly lady involved has been deeply distressed by comments that have extended to her family. Propagating unfounded claims about her family and entangling them in this scenario is not a constructive approach.

"Moreover, we want to emphasise that Singapore Pools is an inclusive establishment, open to everyone who wishes to purchase lottery tickets...

"It's crucial to understand that there was no need to commercialise or draw attention to her visit to Singapore Pools. The image shared likely depicts her using her own funds for the purchase.

"Engaging in defamation serves no purpose and can be especially cruel when directed at an elderly person.

"Even if the elderly lady allegedly requested money, it's essential to remember that she did so without threats or force; the money was given out of goodwill and it should be regarded as a compassionate gesture."

He added: "Our community thrives when we support one another with kindness and empathy, promoting a culture of compassion and forbearance while discouraging media shaming and cyberbullying."