A 42-year-old migrant worker in Singapore won S$18,888 in prize money after emerging as the lucky winner of a game organised during his company's annual dinner and dance event on May 27.
The game, called "Go Big or Go Home", was inspired by the popular Korean drama series "Squid Game".
"Squid Game" throwback
According to a press release from the heavy lift and transport company, Pollisum Engineering, the game featured "Squid Game"-themed challenges such as the iconic 'red light-green light' game, sparking intense competition amongst the 210 employees in attendance.
The winner
Selvam Arumugam, who works as a heavy lift vehicle operator in the company, successfully won all the mini-games in the competition.
He was declared the winner, and took home a bouquet of cash notes amounting to S$18,888, which was equivalent to 1.5 years' worth of his salary.
Arumugam's emotional reaction to winning the prize was captured in a TikTok video posted by the event's emcee:
In the video, Arumugam can seen falling to his knees and bowing with his head to the ground as the prize money is announced.
He later clasps his hands together in front of his mouth, as if overwhelmed with emotion, when the prize is presented to him.
Plans to invest in his family's future
Arumugam, who hails from Tamil Nadu, India, plans to use the prize money to help his family.
He plans to purchase land back home and build a house for his loved ones.
Pollisum Engineering stated that it was "his lifelong dream" to provide a safe and secure home for them.
Originally from an "impoverished village", Arumugam came to Singapore in hopes of supporting his wife and three young children back home.
However, Arumugan now has a total of 17 family members who are financially dependent on him, after both of his older brothers passed away, leaving behind their wives and children.
Company praised worker's dedication and positive impact
A spokesperson from Pollisum Engineering praised Arumugam's dedication and unwavering spirit, and highlighted that he had left a positive impact in his workplace and community.
Apart from the grand prize, S$100,000 in prizes was distributed during the event.
According to the caption of the event emcee's TikTok video, every worker walked home with at least S$188 in prize money.
The heavy lift and transport company, which was founded in 1984, also reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all its staff.
https://mothership.sg/2023/05/migrant-worker-squid-game-prize/?
