MAID DOESN’T WANT TO GO OVERSEAS WITH EMPLOYERS, SCARED OF “CONSEQUENCES”

A Facebook user, Deep Kaur, shared on the Facebook group FDW in Singapore (working conditions forum) asking on behalf of someone what happens if the maid doesn’t want to go on a holiday with the employers.

Here is what she said

Hello group members

Asking for behalf of someone

If the employer is going to India for vacation and they want to also take the helper with them, but if the helper doesn’t want to go with them.

What ever reason the helper has for not going with them, what can be the consequences if she refuses to go?

Should she explain her wish to them nicely? In a legel way I think employers can’t force their helpers to follow them in India and do work in India for them.

I don’t know much about it. Can anyone explain what the helper can do in this situation and what is the best thing she should do? Thank you

Netizens comments

• First, before u hired her did u tell her honestly that sometimes u need to bring her outside Singapore?, if not, u can’t blame her if she refuse..
  Maybe the consequences is employer can terminate the helper give her a chance to work other family
  Helper have right to refuse to go other country especially if u didn’t open up during interview before u hire her maybe she scared, or she is not comfortable, or she worried we don’t know what she is thinking not all helper same mindset to go anywhere, especially if outside Singapore already,

• As far as I know, there’s no MOM rule that says, employer not allowed to tag along the helper when they go holiday.
  Communication is important. If there’s no prior agreement that helper will be following them when they go holiday, then they should sit and talk. Employer should explain why they need to bring the helper along.
  Helper should explain, too, if she doesn’t want to follow.If it’s a valid reason, then they might agree to leave her. But if there’s no valid reason and helper just want to have freedom, no need to work and just relax and wait for salary, then employer might not be happy.
  Possible consequences will be losing the job.I’ve traveled a lot with my previous employers,both in Asia and Europe, because they have 3 small kids and needs an extra hand. I am ok if they bring me along..I take it as part of the job.

• In my opinion our contract is only in Singapore.. if the employer wish to bring the helper, they must have a mutual agreement, yet employer cannot force helper to follow of whatever reason it is..
  going to other country is like staying to another workplace. You need to notify the MOM..

MOM’s guidelines

Can I leave my MDW with a friend, relative or employment agency while I am overseas?

As an employer, you are responsible for the well-being and upkeep of your migrant domestic worker (MDW). This applies even if you are overseas, e.g. on holiday or business trip.

You must continue to pay her salary during your absence.

You can do one of the following:

1. Leave her at home.
2. Allow her to return to her home country for home leave.
3. Leave her with a friend or relative. You need to:
   • Seek approval from MOM.
   • Ensure that the person you’re leaving her with can take care of her well-being, and does not deploy her for work.
4. Leave her at commercially provided housing such as accommodation for MDWs provided by EAs or dormitories for female workers. You need to seek approval from MOM.

To seek approval:

1. Send an online request at least 3 working days before your trip, include the following details:
   • Name, address and relationship of the person your MDW will be staying with.
   • Name of EA or dormitory operator.
   • Duration and dates of her stay.
2. You will receive a reply from MOM whether your request is approved or rejected.

If your MDW remains in Singapore, you must ensure she doesn’t need to pay for her upkeep, including food, medical treatment and accommodation.