Employer in Singapore Seeks to Transfer Maid to Re-Hire Former Helper

A Singaporean employer recently reached out on social media to inquire about the possibility of transferring her current maid to re-hire her former helper. In an anonymous post to a support group, the employer explained that she had hired a new helper who did not get along with her mother. Coincidentally, her previous helper contacted her, stating that she had returned to Singapore and was currently working with another family.

The employer sought advice on whether she could transfer her new maid to another family and take back her former helper, despite both coming from different agencies. She expressed confusion regarding the process, especially since her former helper’s agency had reportedly refused to allow the transfer, threatening to send her back to the Philippines if she did not comply.

In her post, the employer questioned the agent’s authority to send the maid back and why she could not simply take over the loan for her former helper. She also pondered how she could rehire her if the maid were indeed sent back to the Philippines.

Netizens chimed in with their thoughts on the situation. Last month, another woman shared her successful experience of finding her own helper through social media. She posted an advertisement online, interviewed multiple candidates, and eventually hired a maid from Myanmar, detailing the cost savings compared to using an agency.

The second employer mentioned that she managed the entire process herself for around $800, including airfare, insurance, and security bond. She criticized the high fees charged by agencies, where employers often incur significant debt that the maid has to repay from her salary. This allows her to provide her new helper with better living conditions, including toiletries, a new bed, and a private room.