AN EXPERIENCED maid called an agency and was told she would be charged four months' wages to be assigned to an employer in Singapore.

She paid her own fare to Batam, was met by the agent at the airport and taken to his office.

There, she was asked to sign a document that stated the charge was six months' wages.

When she asked about the difference, she was told other agencies charge eight months. Left with no choice, she signed the document.

The agent paid for her food and accommodation for a week in Batam, gave her some basic toiletries, paid for her ferry ticket to Singapore and arranged for her to undergo a medical examination and give her thumb print for the work permit.

The agent also provided food and accommodation for four days in Singapore before her employer picked her up.

For these services, she was charged $1,920. Even as she shared her experiences, she was afraid the agent would come after her if he knew she had complained.

I urge employers and other concerned parties to highlight similar cases so we can rally protection for these maids. Together, we can make a difference.

This article was first published in The Straits Times on May 26, 2008

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