A Mother’s Small Gesture, Big Message
A Singapore mum on TikTok, who goes by @/humancattto, has touched viewers worldwide after posting a heartfelt video of her holding up her baby to see her husband working on a garbage truck nearby.
In the clip, she wrote:
“Today, husband is around our area, so i ran down to show Qaseh how hard baba working! i make sure Qaseh grow up being proud of her baba.”
The short moment — a mother teaching pride, and a child learning the value of honest work — has since drawn a wave of positivity, encouragement, and gratitude for the unseen labour keeping our streets clean.
Viewers Praise Effort, Honour Father’s Work
Comment sections under the video turned into an outpouring of wholesome appreciation.
One viewer wrote: “it’s a job . a decent job… no shame on any of it…”
Another user told the family: “Please tell your husband that everyone… really appreciate his efforts to keep the country clean. Not all heroes wear underwear outside!”
Many resonated deeply with the values shown between the couple and their child:
A user shared, “this kid will grow up to respect every job and treat the janitor and CEO in the same manner.”
Others chimed in with stories of their children excitedly waiting for garbage trucks to arrive, or reminding viewers that sanitary work is meaningful and essential:
“The real meaning of hard work for the family,” wrote another.
One comment read: “Eventhough it isnt Management Level Jobs this teaches dont be afraid or ashamed to let others know what ur parents work as.”
A user reflected on teaching her son early on that garbage collectors are “one of the most important jobs in the world.”
Another revealed salaries for such work are higher than people assume: “Yknow this job has a very high pay! Almost 5K.”
Across the thread, the message was the same: respect all work, and honour those who do it.
Responding To A Cruel Comment, Even More Support Emerges
A second video came after a hateful remark that read: “study hard baby so you dont end up like ur dad”
In response, @/humancattto posted a firm and emotional reply challenging the negativity and defending every honest worker:
She wrote that jobs often dismissed by society are done by people with humility and empathy, adding that loving her husband was something she would “always, all ways” do.
Instead of negativity flooding the page, commenters rallied even harder around her and her husband.
One viewer said: “wth, their salary is probably higher than yours.. the audacity.”
Another user wrote: “They are contributing to Society in a most meaningful way… Try keeping your rubbish in your house for 3 days.”
A comment praised the dignity of the work and the family bond shown: “He is making an honest living and it’s beautiful to see his wife and kid all there with him.”
Another said simply: “Study so much, but cannot study morality.”
One commenter shared the emotional reality behind this labour: “My dad is almost 70 and is working as street cleaner… I know how hard my dad works to put bread on the table.”
The community, once again, made it clear — there is nothing shameful about honest labour.
“I Make Sure Qaseh Grow Up Proud”
Through both videos, what shines is not the job title, but the love that fuels it: a father working so his family thrives, and a mother teaching their child to respect every halal, honest profession.
The clips turned into more than just shared moments on TikTok, they asserted as reminders of who keeps our cities running, and why dignity must always outweigh judgement.
Sometimes, pride looks like a baby in their mother’s arms waving at a father on a garbage truck, learning early that not every hero dons a cape. Some wear uniforms, climb onto trucks at dawn, and build a life with what they earn honestly. And many are lucky enough to have a family cheering them on.
Watch the heartwarming video here:
@humancattto Today, husband is around our area, so i ran down to show Qaseh how hard baba working! i make sure Qaseh grow up being proud of her baba. thank you aini and adik!
More from Wake Up Singapore:-
‘Go And Find Your Mission’: Singapore Taxi Uncle’s Advice Moves Traveller
Stranded in Johor With a Punctured Tyre, Singaporean Cyclist Finds Help From Two Malaysians
If you have a story or a tip-off, email admin@wakeup.sg or get in touch via Whatsapp at 8882 5913.
Interested in advertising on our media channels? Reach out to us at admin@wakeup.sg!
Since you have made it to the end of the article, follow Wake Up Singapore on Telegram and X!
Wake Up Singapore is a volunteer-run site that covers alternative views in Singapore. If you want to volunteer with us, sign up here!
