Nation

Domestic Helper in Singapore Seeks Help After Employer Withholds Salary: What Are Her Options?

2024-11-06

Author: Mei

In a distressing situation capturing the attention of social media users, a domestic helper in Singapore has publicly voiced her concerns about unpaid wages and her reluctance to continue working under such conditions. On November 1st, she turned to the Facebook group “MDW in Singapore,” asking for guidance on how to handle a situation where her employer allegedly refuses to pay her salary.

The helper wrote, “If the helper doesn’t want to work and the employer doesn’t want to give the salary, whom to ask for help—Police, CDE, Home?? Please, I need advice.” This plea sparked a flurry of responses from netizens. Some expressed confusion as her statement implied she was currently unwilling to work, which could complicate matters regarding her payment entitlement. One user pointedly remarked, “But helpers are paid to work… If you don’t want to work, what pay are you asking for?” while another inquired if she was unwell, suggesting that if the issue stemmed from personal conflicts with the employer, a transfer might be more feasible than continuing a strained relationship.

In contrast to the skeptical comments, several netizens offered practical advice. Many suggested that the domestic worker reach out to government bodies such as the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) to address her grievances related to unpaid salaries. The MOM emphasizes that employers are mandated to pay their foreign domestic workers every month, with payments due no later than seven days after the salary period ends.

The Centre for Domestic Employees (CDE), a supportive organization for foreign workers in Singapore, was also mentioned as a possible resource for the helper in her quest for resolution. Tackling unpaid wages is crucial, as foreign domestic workers are often vulnerable to such exploitation.

What Are The Next Steps?

For domestic helpers facing similar predicaments, here are several steps to consider:

1. **Contact the Ministry of Manpower (MOM):** If your employer has not paid your salary, reach out to MOM for guidance and potential intervention, as they regulate employment laws and workers' rights in Singapore.

2. **Seek Support from CDE:** The Centre for Domestic Employees provides services aimed at assisting foreign domestic workers with grievance resolution and emotional support.

3. **Document Everything:** Keep a record of all communications with your employer regarding wages, work duties, and any requests made. This documentation could prove essential if legal steps are necessary.

4. **Understand Employment Rights:** Be informed about your rights as a worker. Employers must adhere to payment timelines and employment contracts, and failure to comply can lead to legal repercussions.

5. **Consider a Transfer or Termination:** If the situation remains untenable, explore options for transferring to another employer or agency, or woefully terminate the contract. Both routes often require adherence to notice period terms detailed in employment agreements.

This incident highlights ongoing concerns about the treatment of foreign domestic workers in Singapore and underscores the importance of a strong support network for these individuals. As discussions continue on social media and among advocacy groups, there's a growing call for clearer protections and rights for domestic helpers.