SINGAPORE: Foreign maids are generally satisfied with working in Singapore, according to a recent study by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
Nine in 10 maids said they were satisfied, and 7 in 10 intend to continue working here after their contracts expire. Of these, almost 9 in 10 would like to continue working for their current employer.
Employers surveyed were also satisfied with their current maids.
Six in 10 employers intend to continue employing their current maids after their existing contracts expire.
The study found that most maids have not experienced any well—being issues in their current employment.
Almost all said that they have sufficient food (99%) and adequate rest (97%) while slightly more than half of foreign domestic workers (53%) said they were given at least one rest day per month.
When asked about the problems faced when they first came to Singapore, 1 in 4 maids cited homesickness.
Close to 2 in 10 (16%) said that they had initial difficulties communicating with Singaporeans, and 1 in 10 (11%) said they were unable to cope with their work.
Close to half of the foreign maids said that they would first approach their employers or their employers’ family members for help if they encounter problems, while about 1 in 5 would approach MOM. The rest said they would approach friends, relatives and employment agents.
The study also found that most foreign maids and their employers showed a high level of awareness of their employment rights and responsibilities.
MOM said it’s encouraged by the findings.
It said it’s releasing the key findings in tandem with an ongoing review of its foreign domestic workers framework and policies.
— CNA /ls
