Here’s the 20‑Year‑Old Who Took a Hot‑Air‑Conditioner to the Max
Meet Ng Jia Sheng—a 20‑year‑old who swapped a polite request for a real‑life drama that landed him in court.
What went down
- Ng asked the 41‑year‑old Filipino maid, Ms Estabillo Soledad Agustin, to turn on the AC. She complied, but in a so‑called “irritated” tone.
- Things fizzled—angry Ng threw the AC controller onto the table.
- Spit‑flecks started. Ng spat – and she spit back, because who doesn’t reciprocate in a “Mama Knows” moment?
- He’s quoted saying, “You’re just a maid, poor, no right to be in Singapore.” Kinda low‑key, but it’s a legal offence.
- When the culprit’s dad finally snatched them apart, the drama didn’t stop. He grabbed the nearest metal mug, flung it right at the maid’s cheek.
- Ms Agustin retaliated with plastic bottles and a jug – fortunately, none hit the 20‑year‑old.
- She eventually ran outside, called the police, got rushed to Tan Tock Seng Hospital, and found herself with a fractured nose.
Legal fallout
The court slapped Ng with several potential penalties. Roughly:
- Grievous hurt by a rash act: max 4 years in jail or a $10,000 fine or both.
- Criminal force on a person: max 3 months in jail or a $1,500 fine or both.
- Insulting words that cause alarm: up to 6 months in jail and a $5,000 fine.
What’s next?
Ng has pleaded guilty and his case is paused until next week for a probation suitability report.
Takeaway
When the AC’s on the fritz and your apartment’s feeling like a version of Mulan’s palace, remember: throwing a mug might earn you a court appearance, not a standing ovation.
This story was first shared by The Straits Times—reproduction requires permission.
