Agencies: Fee may deter hiring Cambodians

Plan to impose US$300 draws protest from M’sian maid firms

PETALING JAYA: Although Cambodia has lifted its moratorium to send domestic helpers to Malaysia, its proposed plan to impose a US$300 (RM1,204) fee has drawn protest from Malaysian maid agencies.

The agencies said the fee, if imposed, would deter Malaysians from hiring Cambodian maids as it would hike up the cost.

A source from the industry said there has been a request to make it compulsory for all Cambodian helpers to go through a fiveday certificate training by a company appointed by the Cambodian government, with a charge of US$300.

“This will be a stumbling block to employers who desperately need helpers including from Cambodia,” said the source when contacted yesterday.

Malaysia and Cambodia signed a new agreement last Nov 29 aimed at protecting domestic workers.

The agreement includes the need for maids to be provided with smartphones, bank accounts and counselling. The deal, however, came as a surprise to labour rights groups in both countries.

Cambodia barred its citizens from coming to work as maids in Malaysia in 2011 after workers reported widespread abuse, including overwork, salary disputes, and physical and sexual assaults.

The two nations agreed to reopen the pipeline in 2015 but the rollout was marred by procedural confusion.

Some already have the necessary experience. We would like the Cambodian government to clarify the matter. Industry source

The source said the training is not needed as it will not make much of a difference.

“They will not learn much in five days. Some already have the necessary experience.

“We would like the Cambodian government to clarify the matter, and the need for such training,” the source added.

Asked on the cost to hire a Cambodian maid, the source said no standard amount has been agreed to yet by both governments.

Malaysian Maid Employers Association president Engku Ahmad Fauzi Engku Muhsein encouraged potential employers to apply online for their helpers.

“So far, the system has been the same, in that they can still go through maid agencies.

“The Government only adds another option for employers to procure foreign maids – they can engage agencies or go for selfapplication online,” he said.