Full Breakdown
Malaysian Man Sentenced for Rape of Filipino Domestic Worker in Singapore
4/15/2026, 2:47:47 PM
Incident Overview
On May 26, 2024, Harvin Velanggany, a 24-year-old Malaysian odd-job labourer, was sentenced to eight years in prison and six strokes of the cane for raping a 32-year-old Filipino domestic worker in Singapore. The assault occurred in a dimly lit field near Hotel Mi Rochor shortly after the victim had been sexually assaulted by another man, Anbazhagan Sivamurugan, a 34-year-old Indian tourist, whose case is still pending in court.
Details of the Assault
The victim was on her day off and had consumed several cans of beer when she was first approached by Sivamurugan, who allegedly assaulted her. Following this initial attack, the victim encountered Harvin and informed him of the assault. Instead of assisting her, Harvin overpowered the victim, pinning her down and sexually assaulting her. After the assault, he stole SGD124 (approximately RM369) from her belongings, which he later returned after being confronted.
Medical and Legal Response
After the incident, the victim sought help from a staff member at Hotel Mi Rochor, who contacted the police. She was subsequently taken to KK Women's and Children's Hospital for medical examination and treatment. Although she tested negative for sexually transmitted diseases, she required antibiotics, emergency contraception, and HIV preventative medication. The medical expenses, exceeding RM3,275 (SGD1,000), were covered by her employer.
Sentencing and Judicial Remarks
During the sentencing on April 13, the High Court judge considered the predatory nature of Harvin's crime. Deputy public prosecutors Ben Tan and Janessa Phua emphasized the dangerous conditions of the area, which, despite being near prominent landmarks like Lasalle College of the Arts and Sim Lim Square, is known to be quiet and poorly lit at night, particularly on Sundays. Harvin was arrested two days after the incident on May 28, 2024.
Criticism & Opposition
The case has drawn attention to the vulnerabilities faced by domestic workers in Singapore, particularly those from foreign countries. Critics argue that more needs to be done to protect these workers from violence and exploitation. The ongoing case against Sivamurugan also raises concerns about the safety of women in public spaces, especially during off-hours.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Court proceedings revealed that Harvin noticed the victim was "very drunk" and ignored her pleas for help.” — Court documents
What's Next
The legal proceedings against Anbazhagan Sivamurugan are ongoing, and further developments in the case may shed light on the broader issues of safety and protection for domestic workers in Singapore.
