SHAH ALAM - Having a domestic helper would definitely lessen the responsibilities borne by family members in caring for their loved ones.
Although there are advantages to having maids, there are also many challenges and drawbacks.
Thirty-two-year-old Kuhan Manoharan, a senior manager of a private company from Klang, said having a maid usually comes with its own set of challenges.
He said one of the biggest challenges of having a maid is trusting them with personal belongings and the security of the house.
"Communication barriers could also be a challenge, especially if the employer and maid speak different languages.
"Maintaining a healthy relationship with the maid can be difficult, especially if there are cultural or personality differences.
"Therefore, it is important to communicate effectively, set clear expectations, and treat the maid with respect to overcome these challenges," he told Sinar Daily.
When asked about the cost of hiring a maid, Kuhan said it depends on several factors, such as location, experience, working hours, and specific task requirements.
"In Malaysia, the cost of a maid service on an hourly basis can range from RM20.00 to RM40.00 an hour, whereas it can come up to a minimum wage of RM 1,500.00 monthly to RM 5,000.00 monthly (price varies depending on nationality and experience).
"Hiring a maid could be afforded by some households, especially those with busy schedules.
"It is important to consider the expenses of a maid service along with the convenience and value it brings to your daily life," he reasoned.
Commenting further, Kuhan said the monthly expenditures for a maid may vary from month to month, adding that he spends roughly RM3,000 for a maid, inclusive of food, accommodation, and other benefits.
Kuhan further explained the estimated cost of bringing in a foreign maid in Malaysia.
"The employer is required to pay a fee for the application and processing of the maid's work permit and visa. The cost may vary depending on the country of origin and the agency that you engage for the process.
"If the employer is engaged with a maid agency or a recruitment agent, the employer may need to pay a fee for their services, which typically ranges from RM4,000 to RM8,000.
"Next is the placement fee, which is paid to the maid upon their arrival in Malaysia and typically ranges from RM2,000 to RM5,000.
"The employer is responsible for providing health insurance and a medical examination for the maid, the cost may vary depending on the policy coverage and the medical facility," he said.
However, Kuhan said the estimated costs may change over time due to changes in government regulations, economic factors, and other factors that affect the cost of bringing in a foreign maid.
Kuhan also highlights that there are possibilities for maids to make requests for additional benefits or amenities, such as a separate room or access to certain facilities.
"However, such requests should be discussed and agreed upon between the employer and the maid before the employment contract is signed.
"To overcome this issue, it is recommended that the employer discuss the terms and conditions of employment in detail with the maid, including the working hours, monthly salary, days off, and any potential benefits or amenities that the maid may require.
"This will help to avoid any misunderstandings or disputes that may arise during the course of employment," he said.
Therefore, Kuhan encouraged the employer to provide a clear job description and list of duties for the maid, as well as a written contract that outlines all the terms and conditions of employment.
Commenting further, Dhaniyaa Basil, 27, a private sector employee from Melaka, said the most challenging part of having a maid is making them understand that 'it is okay' to open up to the employer if there is something bothering them.
"In the first few months, the maid will need to get used to it, and we as an employer should always understand that the maids are away from home.
"Some are of the opinion that they are only here to work, but what everyone is forgetting is that the maids are also human beings," she said.
Speaking on the cost of a maid, Dhaniyaa said it all depends on one's needs.
"If you need a maid for daily work and to take care of children or adults, then yes, it might be costly. "It is normal for one to assume that you live a luxurious life if you have a maid.
"It should be understood that if someone gets a maid because they have more things on their plate and they can't handle it themselves," she said.
Dhaniyaa said she spends approximately RM3,000 on her maid but never considers it a burden since the maid is doing a great job.
"I have never complained about the pay because she (maid) has been a wonderful person in taking care of my elderly parents and grandparents," she said.
Meanwhile, 29-year-old Jeszy Chandran, Klang said the cost of a maid depends on the agent or government.
"I don't think only maids are for rich people; anyone can afford it if they have the right financial plan.
"My family spends approximately RM1500 on maids monthly," she said.
Jeszy also said that there are certain compulsory things that need to be done as an employer for maids.
"One of the compulsory things is a private room to stay in.
"For Muslim workers, they must be allowed to pray.
"The maids must also be given proper rest and enough sleeping time," she said.