Introduction

SINGAPORE: A domestic helper's harrowing story has gained attention on social media, prompting discussions about the challenges faced by many in the industry. Posting in the 'Singapore Direct and Agency Hired Domestic Helpers' Facebook group, she revealed the grueling nature of her daily work routine, leading many to sympathize and call for better conditions for workers.

Daily Schedule and Responsibilities

The maid wakes up every day at 5:40 a.m., immediately diving into her responsibilities without any rest until nearly midnight. Her first task is preparing breakfast for three young children aged 5, 9, and 11, followed by packing their lunches and guiding them through their English and Chinese lessons before taking them to school at 7 a.m.

Upon returning home, her duties continue without pause. She is required to handle all household chores and prepare breakfast for her employers by 10 a.m. Despite her best efforts to find moments of respite during meal times, her employers frequently interrupt, demanding additional tasks that leave her with little to no downtime.

"My ma'am always requests something else from me, and it feels like there's no time to rest," she lamented.

Evening Responsibilities and Lack of Rest

As the school day wraps up, she assists the older children with their homework and various activities when they return at 2 p.m. Despite her original agreement only requiring her to assist with lessons, she feels pressured to take on more responsibilities as the parents appear indifferent to their children’s education.

From 4 p.m. until 6 p.m., she prepares dinner, but the family often eats as late as 9 p.m., forcing her to remain on standby until they finish. After dinner, the cleaning doesn't stop; she cleans the kitchen until 10:30 p.m., baths the youngest child, and provides him with help on his studies until 11 p.m.

Struggles with Sleep and Consideration of Employment Change

Once her responsibilities are completed, sleep remains elusive. "Even when I go to my room, the children are still active. I can't sleep as they keep opening the door," she shared, highlighting the overburdened nature of her situation. With the kids typically settling down around midnight, her sleep schedule inevitably suffers.

Despite a promise from her employers to allow her to rest earlier if she renewed her contract, she is now reconsidering the decision as little has changed. Seeking advice from her online community, she wonders whether she should continue in her current role or seek employment elsewhere—a dilemma many domestic helpers face.

Community Support and Reactions

Commenters on her post empathized with her plight and provided various suggestions, urging her to communicate her needs with her employers. Some questioned the appropriateness of her teaching duties, pointing out that hiring a tutor would be more suitable.

"What is the role of a helper? We should not be teachers," one commenter remarked. "This is unfair to both the worker and the children who need dedicated attention that their parents should provide."

Others took a firmer stance, advising her to prioritize her well-being. "You deserve to work where you're valued. Health and family matter most!" one netizen declared.

Conclusion

As awareness of these demanding work conditions grows, many are left questioning: how many individuals in similar situations continue to endure such circumstances? Domestic helpers often work around the clock, a reality that begs the question—what should be done to improve their treatment and ensure their rights are respected?