ITE drop-out, 22, works as waste collector, says doesn't matter what people think as it's an honest living

A 22-year-old man in Singapore decided to pursue a career as a waste collector in Singapore.

Muhamad Danial Aiman Abdul Muttalib has documented his work as a waste collector on TikTok.

@dannyarmani_ A day in the life of a recycle waste attendant 🧤 inspiration from @AshKT #fyp #kerja ♬ BREAKBEAT DANZA KUDURO X AMERICAN DREAM V2 - ᴡᴇs. ᴢᴀɴ

Danial has reportedly been working at the waste management company 800 Super for about five months.

For the better

Danial, the oldest of three siblings, told Berita Harian he entered this line of work to prove he could change his life for the better after feeling he had let his family down.

“I entered this industry by accident after being invited by a friend to attend an interview. At that time, I wasn't really picky about the job offered, as long as it was an honest source of income," he said.

Danial also admitted to having difficulty finding employment.

He previously worked as a food delivery rider.

"I had dropped out of the Institute of Technical Education (ITE), and my performance during National Service was also not very good," he said.

Challenges

One of the challenges he faces is the weather, as he works regardless of rain or shine.

He also noted the stigma surrounding waste collectors.

“This job is often associated with a shameful or low-paid job, and some even think that this industry is mostly for the Malay community. That perception is not accurate because this industry also involves workers from various backgrounds and races,” he clarified.

Danial also admitted that the job offers a “fairly good income”.

He also explained that he would clean himself up after his shift.

“I handle more recyclable materials, so the smell is more of a box and sweat than a really bad waste,” he said.

“Why should I care”

Despite receiving negative comments on social media about his job, Danial claims he does not take them seriously.

To Danial, earning an honest living mattered more than opinions of others.

He said: “People can say anything. I know what I’m doing is not wrong. Why should I care what people think when I’m earning a living in an honest way?”