In March 2026, a French student named Didier Gaspard Owen Maximilien, aged 19, engaged in a controversial social media stunt in Singapore. He filmed himself licking a straw from an orange juice vending machine and then returned it to the machine, intending to share the act with his online followers. This incident occurred at a shopping mall and quickly gained attention after the video went viral. Following the incident, prosecutors charged him with public nuisance, which is a serious offense in Singapore, known for its strict regulations regarding public behavior and cleanliness. In April 2026, after the video spread widely, Didier pleaded guilty to the public nuisance charge. The court considered mitigating factors during sentencing, including his youth, the fact that he retrieved the straw himself, and that no member of the public had used it. Prosecutors sought a maximum fine of $1,551, arguing that the act risked undermining public confidence in the hygiene of vending machines. Ultimately, the court imposed a fine of $465 and did not order any community service, taking into account that Didier had shown remorse and pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity. The incident prompted the company operating the vending machine, IJooz, to file a police report and take immediate action by sanitizing the dispenser and replacing all 500 straws in the machine. They also announced plans to upgrade their machines to include individually packaged straws and compartments that unlock only after a transaction is completed. This response highlights the importance of maintaining hygiene standards in public spaces, especially in a densely populated city-state like Singapore, where cleanliness is heavily regulated. Didier, who is studying at a business school in Singapore, expressed deep remorse for his actions through his defense counsel. His lawyer emphasized that the stunt was intended for social media followers and that Didier had no intention of putting anyone else at risk. The court's decision also raised questions about the future of Didier's student pass in Singapore, as immigration authorities will review his case considering the circumstances surrounding the incident. The case serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of social media stunts and the importance of responsible behavior in public settings.