KKH valet attendant accused of 'aggressively soliciting' for tips, hospital says tipping optional

A valet attendant at KK Women's and Children's Hospital (KKH) along Bukit Timah Road has been accused of repeatedly soliciting tips from a driver, who said he did not have any cash.

"Aggressively solicited" for a tip

In an anonymous post on the Facebook group Complaint Singapore, the individual claimed that during a recent visit to the hospital, he was "aggressively solicited" for a tip by a valet attendant.

According to the post, the attendant had asked him for a tip three times.

Even after the driver told the attendant that he did not have any cash on hand, the attendant allegedly continued to persist in asking for money.

"This is not merely an awkward interaction; it is unprofessional, coercive, and unacceptable," the individual wrote in the post.

A quick check on KKH's website showed that its valet parking service is free for patients and visitors.

Users are only required to pay the prevailing parking charges.

The parking charges listed on KKH's website are as follows:

Tipping is entirely discretionary: KKH

In response to Mothership's queries, the director of Operational Support Services at KKH, Michael Ng, said the hospital was aware of the incident involving its valet service.

"We understand that a recent experience with our valet service has fallen short of the standards we aim to provide, and we sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused," he said.

Ng added that the valet service is provided as a convenience for patients and visitors, with standard car park charges applicable.

He also stressed that tipping is entirely discretionary and that valet attendants are prohibited from soliciting tips.

"We take all feedback seriously and have promptly reinforced service guidelines with the service provider to reiterate clear instructions to all staff," he said.

"KKH is committed to service excellence, ensuring that every interaction reflects the care and professionalism the hospital is known for."