Mr Coconut Counters Pregnancy Discrimination Claims with Investigation Findings

SINGAPORE — Local F&B chain Mr Coconut responded to a former employee’s claims of pregnancy discrimination, detailing findings from an internal investigation that led to her dismissal. In a social media post on Feb. 7, Mr Coconut addressed the allegations made by Charissa Tan, who had posted on Jan. 18 claiming she was unfairly terminated after disclosing her pregnancy.

In her post, Tan alleged that she was dismissed due to “poor performance” despite positive feedback from her manager. She recounted feeling unwell at work, taking unpaid leave for COVID-19, and her overall challenges balancing work and health.

Mr Coconut clarified that Tan’s employment had been terminated on Jan. 15, before her pregnancy disclosure on Jan. 16. The company stated that a job advertisement for her role had been posted the same day as the termination decision. Surveillance footage revealed further issues, including Tan watching a movie during work hours and taking significant leave while on probation.

Tan had also requested S$53,000 in compensation, nearly 18 times her monthly salary, and allegedly threatened to escalate the situation if not resolved. Mr Coconut reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on discrimination, offering to further engage with Tan if needed.

In Singapore, pregnant employees dismissed without sufficient cause are legally entitled to maternity benefits if employed for at least three months prior to dismissal.