Netizens: Ridiculous to pay maids S$600 a month amid increasing costs

Singapore — Responding to a study indicating that about 48 per cent of Singaporeans think foreign domestic workers should be paid less than S$600 a month, members of the public highlighted the amount was “ridiculous”.

Global public opinion and data company YouGov surveyed 1,060 Singaporeans in 2019, releasing its findings highlighting that nearly half of the respondents deem the stipulated monthly salary to be adequate.

“With the sheer number of foreign domestic workers in Singapore, we wanted to find out what Singaporeans thought about the people taking care of their homes or their children. It appears that most are content with the current rights and quality of life for domestic helpers. What is interesting is how views vary between employers and non-employers of domestic helpers, with the latter thinking they deserve more time off,” said Jake Gammon, Head of Omnibus APAC at YouGov Omnibus.

Meanwhile, 68 per cent of the respondents believe that one day off is sufficient, while over a third said the quality of life for domestic helpers in Singapore was good.

The research also observed that 55 per cent of Singaporeans believe there are adequate laws in the country protecting maids’ rights.

As of November this year, Singapore has about 245,000 foreign domestic workers, with almost one in five households employing a helper.

YouGov’s findings were posted once more recently, with members from the online community commenting that maids should not be abused and paid a salary that matches the increasing costs of living.

Others focused on the levies and taxes which employers have to pay, but perhaps could be channelled to the helpers instead.

Netizens also highlighted that respect was another important element in creating a positive work environment for both employer and helper.

/TISG

Read related: YouGov: Almost half of Singaporeans believe maids should be paid under S$600/month

YouGov: Almost half of Singaporeans believe maids should be paid under S$600/month