In a heartwarming turn of events, Selvam Arumugam, a 42-year-old Indian national working in Singapore, emerged as the winner of a cash prize worth SGD18,888 (Rs 11.5 lakh approx) at a company event inspired by the popular South Korean survival drama, Squid Game. The event, hosted by heavy vehicle leasing firm Pollisum Engineering, aimed to reward its employees for their hard work and celebrate the company’s recent success.
Selvam, who had not previously heard of the show, works as a rigger and signalman at Pollisum Engineering, ensuring the safety of lifting operations at construction sites. Little did he know that this company event would be life-altering for him and his family. The prize money he won is equivalent to one and a half years’ worth of his salary, providing him with a rare opportunity to improve their living conditions.
With his winnings, Selvam plans to build a family home in India for his 15-member household, which currently resides in a rented flat. In addition to fulfilling this long-held dream, he intends to support his brothers’ children’s education, given that his parents and two brothers have passed away. He also shoulders the responsibility of providing for his in-laws.
Selvam’s disbelief and overwhelming joy were evident when he received the news. Falling to his knees and covering his face with his hands, he experienced a moment of pure disbelief that he had won the first prize. Upon sharing the news with his family, they were overcome with a mix of celebration and tears, creating a memory they will cherish for a lifetime.
The event itself closely mirrored the distinctive elements of Squid Game, with players donning red tracksuit jackets and number tags, while game masters wore red hooded jumpsuits. A giant inflatable ball filled with money hung from the ceiling, reminiscent of the show’s iconic piggy bank.
Pollisum Engineering’s executive director, Chris Ang, expressed the company’s intention to reward its dedicated employees due to its recent expansion and success. Selvam’s unexpected victory serves as a testament to the transformative power of such events, uplifting individuals and their families, and reminding them that hard work can lead to life-changing opportunities.
Selvam, who arrived in Singapore from Tamil Nadu in 2007, is married and has three children. His remarkable journey, from a foreign worker to a prize-winning participant, symbolizes hope and inspiration for others in similar circumstances.