A former preschool teacher has been sentenced to nine months and two weeks in jail after exhibiting troubling behaviour toward a toddler under her care. Saiidah Kamarudin, 34, pleaded guilty to ill-treating a 20-month-old girl, causing her to suffer visible injuries.
The Incident
The events unfolded in November 2023 at a childcare centre, where Saiidah had been employed for just a few weeks. While attempting to clean the little girl, she repeatedly tripped her—actions that were captured on closed-circuit television. These unsettling moments led to the girl sustaining bruises to her face and bleeding from the nose.
Details of the Case
- Saiidah worked at the childcare centre from late September 2023 until her resignation in October.
- On the day of the incident, she took the girl to the toilet and began to trip her intentionally.
- After the toddler fell multiple times, her injuries prompted her parents to seek medical attention and report the incident.
Legal Proceedings
During the court proceedings, the Deputy Public Prosecutor, Cheah Wenjie, condemned Saiidah’s actions as a “disturbing breach of trust”. The prosecution argued for a harsher sentence of 15 to 16 months, citing the calculated nature of her actions. They stressed how the child, being unable to speak, could not report the incidents.
Defence Arguments
Saiidah’s lawyer, Deepak Natverlal, contended that she was remorseful and sought a lighter sentence, highlighting her difficult work environment. He described her as feeling ostracised and stressed that the incident was out of character, attributing it to a momentary lapse in judgement. Additionally, he mentioned various issues at the childcare centre that contributed to her feelings of inadequacy.
A Wake-Up Call for Childcare Standards
This case raises significant concerns about childcare standards in Singapore, emphasizing the need for stringent measures to ensure the safety and well-being of children. As discussions around early childhood education evolve, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities borne by those in the profession.
Consequences Under Law
Under the Children and Young Persons Act, offenders found guilty of child ill-treatment can face up to eight years in prison or a fine of up to S$8,000, or both. This legal framework aims to protect the vulnerable, particularly children like the victim in this case.