A touching video posted three days ago by @westlitesg on Instagram has been resonating online for its simple, but emotional question: “Who do you miss right now?”
The video shows five migrant workers standing behind a sheet of paper bearing that question, before they take turns sharing their answers — spoken softly, honestly, and straight from the heart.
“I miss my wife, my children… my parents”
In the clip, the men speak about families they have not seen for months, and in some cases, years.
“I miss my family, my wife, baby, parents, everybody who is waiting for me at my home,” one worker says.
Another shares:
“Eight months I haven’t seen them — my children, my family members.”
Others echo similar sentiments:
“I miss my mother and father. I have been working in Singapore for two years.”
“I miss my family and relatives a lot. When I get leave, I want to go and see them.”
The video ends with a line that quietly captures the reality behind many migrant journeys:
“Every journey is powered by someone waiting back home.”
A reminder during a season of togetherness
This message lands especially strongly during the holiday period. While many in Singapore are celebrating with family, sharing meals, and gathering at home, migrant workers continue to work far from their loved ones.
They stay connected mostly through phone screens and short voice calls.
The caption shared by @westlitesg reads:
“When we asked ‘Who do you miss right now?’ the answers came from the heart.
Some haven’t seen their loved ones for almost two years.
Yet they show up every day with strength, purpose, and quiet resilience.Behind every smile is someone they long to go home to.
Behind every story is love worth waiting for.”
A Glimpse Into Everyday Connections Often Unseen
The video offers a rare moment of pause in daily life — an interaction that many rush past. In Singapore, migrant workers play a vital role in keeping the city running, from building infrastructure and maintaining roads to caring for homes, children and the elderly.
This short exchange shows how meaningful it can be when someone simply takes time to ask a question, listen, and acknowledge their humanity. A greeting, a nod, or a small act of kindness can go a long way in making someone feel seen.
The Role Migrant Workers Play in Singapore
Foreign workers make up a significant part of Singapore’s workforce. According to the Ministry of Manpower, as of June 2025, there were more than 1.59 million foreign workers in the country. They are essential across sectors such as construction, maintenance, and domestic care — roles that directly support Singapore’s standard of living.
Despite their contributions, as found by the International Labour Organization have highlighted how migrant workers often face social isolation and stigma. This makes everyday gestures of respect and kindness even more meaningful.
What viewers are saying
Many viewers responded emotionally to the video.
They shared messages of empathy, gratitude and reflection in the comments.
How we can support migrant workers
Helping migrant workers does not always require money — time, respect and awareness matter too.
Here are some ways to help:
- Volunteer with organisations such as, TWC2, or MWC, which work to support migrant workers’ welfare in Singapore.
- Offer simple kindness in daily life. a smile, a wave, a greeting, or even a cold drink on a hot day can make a difference.
- Acknowledge their presence and contributions, instead of looking past them.
This holiday season, as families gather and celebrations fill the calendar, the video serves as a quiet reminder: behind the city we enjoy are people carrying love, sacrifice and longing — all for someone waiting back home.
Watch the video here:
@westlite.sg Sometimes the hardest part isn’t the work… It’s the people you wish you could go home to. ❤️ #Westlite #MigrantWorkers #peopleimissthemost #migrantworkerssingapore #Singapore
More from Wake Up Singapore:-
“Can you blow at me?” – Bangladeshi Worker and Singaporean Man Share Wholesome Moment
Migrant Worker Who Rescued Kiko Was Longtime Family Friend, Says Owner After Frantic 2-Day Search
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!
