**SINGAPORE:** In a surprising trend, an increasing number of foreign domestic workers are opting to transition into cleaning positions, seeking better pay and flexibility. One such case is 33-year-old Moe Zin from Myanmar, who spent six years working as a domestic worker before deciding it was time for a change.

"I took care of Ah Gong 24 hours a day. I didn’t have my own time. So, I decided I want freedom," Moe Zin explained, reflecting on her previous job that demanded constant availability and attention.

After only three months at MEIDE.SG, a cleaning services company, she has found it to be a worthwhile endeavor. As per reports, applications from domestic workers looking to switch to cleaning jobs have nearly doubled in the last six months.

Why the Shift?

While the exact motives for this shift remain somewhat unclear, industry experts suggest that the higher wages offered for cleaning jobs coupled with more flexible working hours are key motivators. The introduction of the Household Services Scheme in 2021 has paved the way for greater opportunities by allowing companies to hire migrant workers for essential services like cleaning and caregiving.

The scheme was initially introduced as a pilot in 2017 and continued to evolve, expanding in 2023 to allow the hiring of more migrant workers for basic childcare and eldercare services. Mr. Pierre Tan, founder of MEIDE.SG, has reported a dramatic nearly tenfold increase in full-time workers servicing households since the adoption of this scheme, reflecting a significant shift away from relying solely on gig workers.

Standardized Quality and Demand Surge

Tan emphasized the benefits of employing full-time workers rather than gig freelancers, stating that cleaning quality can be inconsistent among part-timers. "Hiring full-time means we can provide a more standardized quality of cleaning," he noted. In the wake of increased demand for services, particularly as the New Year celebrations approach and the Chinese New Year festivities loom closer, cleaning service inquiries have surged to three times the normal levels.

Interestingly, many younger workers appear to be seeking more independence than their older counterparts, who may have been more willing to remain with a single employer. Younger employees often prioritize personal freedoms, such as relationships, which may not align with the expectations of their employers.

Contract Workers and the Future

Amidst these changes, another cleaning service provider, Sendhelper by Propertyguru, faces challenges in relying exclusively on local freelancers during peak periods. Senior product manager Yeo Huiling commented on the difficulties local part-timers experience during festive seasons, as many choose to take time off to celebrate.

To mitigate this issue, Sendhelper has turned to contract workers, allowing them to tap into global manpower while ensuring the high standard of service needed to keep pace with the burgeoning demand. The firm has invested significantly in training, collaborating with workers from around the world who relocate to Singapore for employment.

Last year, they onboarded a hospitality-trained individual to elevate service standards for both freelancers and contractors. This blend of local freelancers and trained contract workers positions Sendhelper to better respond to peaks in demand, ensuring quality service during critical times.

As the cleaning landscape in Singapore evolves, the trend of domestic workers transitioning to cleaning roles is set to reshape the industry, offering opportunities for better working conditions and fulfilling careers.