(Bangkok Post file photo)
In a tragic turn of events, a dedicated factory employee tragically lost her life after an alleged refusal from her manager to grant additional sick leave without a new medical certificate. The worker, known only as May, was a devoted 30-year-old from Sukhothai province, employed at an electronics plant nestled within the Bang Pu Industrial Estate in Muang district of Samut Prakan province.
The harrowing story came to light through a series of screenshots shared on a Facebook page, capturing the conversations of her colleagues. The grim announcement detailing May’s untimely death after being denied further sick leave sent ripples of outrage across social media platforms, sparking an uproar against the company.
Described by her friends as a diligent employee, May had initially taken medical leave from September 5 to 9 after being diagnosed with an inflamed large intestine. Her ailment led her to spend four days in the hospital. Despite her treatment, May confided in her friends that her health had not seen any improvement.
Determined to recuperate, she opted to take off two additional days. By the evening of September 12, May’s condition had worsened, prompting her to request her manager for sick leave on the following day, September 13. However, her manager insisted that she report to work and produce a new medical certificate due to her already extensive sick days.
According to her peers, May had no prior history of taking sick leave before this recent illness episode. Worried about jeopardizing her employment, she dragged herself to work on the ill-fated day of September 13 despite her deteriorating health. Unfortunately, May’s frail body could not withstand the strain, and she collapsed merely 20 minutes into her shift.
May was immediately rushed to the hospital, where doctors frantically worked to save her, but their efforts were in vain. The next evening, she succumbed to necrotising enterocolitis, leaving behind a trail of heartbreak and unanswered questions.
Reacting to the devastating news, Delta Electronics Thailand took to their Facebook page to express their condolences. “We are deeply saddened by the loss of our colleague. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to her family and loved ones during this difficult time,” read the solemn announcement.
The company assured the public that they were in the process of “establishing the facts surrounding her passing” and had initiated a thorough investigation. “Our goal is to create a better understanding of the situation while ensuring we provide the necessary support to her family,” the statement continued.
“We remain fully committed to doing everything we can to help during this challenging period. We will share updates as more information becomes available. Thank you for your patience and understanding during this sensitive time,” the company concluded, leaving many hoping for a resolution to the tragedy.
This is absolutely heartbreaking. How could a company ignore the well-being of its employees to this extent?
It’s unbelievable. Companies need to prioritize their workers, not just their profits.
Couldn’t agree more. Employee health should be the top priority, especially in a situation as dire as this.
Exactly, Melissa. She clearly needed medical attention, not a reprimand for more paperwork.
Are we sure all the facts are out? Maybe there were some communication issues or misunderstandings involved.
So tragic and unnecessary! There should be strict laws to protect workers in such situations.
Unfortunately, laws vary so much from country to country. Some places protect workers better than others.
Exactly, Gina. It’s up to the company’s culture as well. Sounds like Delta Electronics dropped the ball big time.
She had to endure such suffering just to keep her job. It’s infuriating.
It’s so wrong. She was dedicated and deserved so much better.
Absolutely. I hope steps are taken to ensure this never happens again.
Can we really blame the company without knowing all the details? There might be more to the story.
It doesn’t change the fact that a young woman lost her life because she was denied care. That’s inexcusable.
True, but understanding all sides will help prevent such tragedies in the future.
So sad. No job is worth risking your life over.
Yes, but for many people, especially in tough economic times, their job is their lifeline.
And that’s exactly why companies need to step up and offer real support.
This shouldn’t even be a debate. Human lives are more important than any job.
The company should face serious consequences. Losing a life cannot be undone. This is criminal negligence.
Agreed. Only then will other companies learn to take employee health seriously.
I worked for a place like this. It’s systemic in many factories. Something needs to change before more lives are lost.
It’s horrifying to think this might not be an isolated incident. Where do we even begin to fix such deep-rooted issues?
Start by holding those in power accountable. If there’s no real consequence, nothing will change.
You’re right. Laws need to be more stringent and enforced without bias.
Honestly, even if there were misunderstandings, any human with compassion would have given her a break. Rest in peace, May.
It’s all too easy for companies to express their condolences after the fact. They need to be proactive, not reactive.
There’s often a huge gap between policy and practice. Training managers to handle these situations better is crucial.
Yes, proper training and empathy in leadership can make all the difference.
Agreed. But shifting corporate culture is a mammoth task.
Lawsuits will follow, no doubt. Money won’t bring her back, but maybe it will push for change.
How many more tragedies like this will it take before companies learn to value their employees’ lives over deadlines and quotas?
This case is devastating, but it highlights a broader issue in labor rights globally.
It certainly does. Workers everywhere face similar challenges. We need global labor reform.
People should never have to choose between their health and their job. This needs global attention.
It’s a universal problem. Time for everyone to speak up and demand change.
Poor May. I hope her family gets the support and justice they deserve.
Justice is key here, Amy. Companies shouldn’t get off easily.