Mandatory Use of Licensed Agencies and Embassy Systems

As of November 2023, Malaysia’s Human Resources Ministry has announced a rule that all employers are required to hire Indonesian domestic helpers through registered private employment agencies and coordinate through the Indonesian Embassy. This process uses Malaysia’s maid agency malaysia Online System and the Sipermit system managed by Indonesia, with a maximum hiring fee of RM15,000. The goal is to promote transparency and protect workers’ rights.

Cross-Border Collaboration on Recruitment Process

Both countries have agreed to establish a bilateral task force to align their worker placement systems. This is aimed at improving efficiency and ensuring tighter oversight of the maid recruitment process.

Report Warns of Domestic Worker Abuse

A study by the International Labour Organization (ILO) revealed that almost one-third of migrant maids in Malaysia experience exploitation. This finding has pressured both governments to tighten regulations and implement reforms to safeguard vulnerable workers.

Agencies That Break Rules Face Blacklist

The Indonesian ambassador to Malaysia stated that maid agencies who ignore complaints or have unresolved complaints from employers will be removed from the approved list. This measure is intended to punish unethical agencies and improve accountability in the maid hiring industry.

These combined efforts aim to transform the recruitment and placement of Indonesian maids in Malaysia, guaranteeing safety and reducing abuse cases.