Myanmar Maids: Are They the Right Fit for Your Family?

Understanding the Myanmar Helper Phenomenon

Myanmar is one of several countries from which a significant number of migrant workers, especially women, move abroad in search of better employment opportunities. These women typically take up roles as domestic helpers in various countries, including Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and the United Arab Emirates. The primary motivation for this migration is the economic challenges they face in their homeland. Employment opportunities within Myanmar are often limited, with low wages and high unemployment rates driving the search for better prospects overseas.

These domestic workers are attracted by the promise of higher wages abroad, which can significantly improve their living standards and provide substantial financial support to their families back home. Remittances sent back to Myanmar help alleviate poverty and boost the local economy.

Furthermore, working abroad can offer these women personal development and a sense of independence that might be less accessible in their native country. However, this migration has its challenges. Domestic workers often face difficult working conditions and social isolation and are sometimes vulnerable to exploitation due to regulatory and cultural differences in their host countries.

Despite these challenges, the trend continues as their reputation for diligence, adaptability, and strong work ethic have become sought-after assets for households looking for reliable help. However, before hiring a Myanmar maid, it is essential to consider various factors to ensure they fit your family’s needs. 

Traits and Qualities of Myanmar Maids

If you decide to employ a maid from Myanmar, you can expect numerous advantages. One standout benefit is their affordability compared to maids from other countries like the Philippines and Indonesia. Does this pique your interest in hiring a Myanmar maid? Before we dive deeper, it’s important to note that the traits we will discuss are just based on general observations shared by those who have previously hired Myanmar maids. With that being said, let’s explore more reasons why you should consider it:

Sweet Personality

Maids from Myanmar are highly sought after because of their gentle and sweet disposition. Their innate shyness may sometimes make it seem like they struggle to comprehend your instructions. While some may face challenges communicating in English, their warm personality shines through in their actions and mannerisms. Nowadays, numerous agencies provide basic English courses for their recruits, alleviating concerns about effective communication post-placement. Furthermore, the infectious nature of their pleasant temperament often fosters harmonious living arrangements with their employers.

Respectful Attitude

Myanmar maids are valued for their gentle demeanour and respectful attitude. They hold their employers and the families they serve in high regard. Even if they make a mistake, they are prepared to accept responsibility without showing disrespect. Rather than reacting harshly, they explain themselves calmly and courteously when asked. This respectful behaviour extends beyond the workplace to interactions in public settings like the MRT station, bus stop, market, grocery store, or anywhere else.

Hardworking Nature

Yet another compelling reason to consider hiring a maid from Myanmar is their unwavering dedication to hard work. Employers often vouch for the strong work ethic exhibited by these individuals. They readily take instructions from employers regarding household tasks, prioritising chores without fuss. Motivated by their aspirations for a brighter future for themselves and their loved ones back home, they possess an unwavering commitment to impressing their employers through diligence. As a result, they are less inclined to voice complaints while carrying out various chores.

Also, Myanmar maids are dedicated to completing their tasks with as few errors as possible. They make an effort to work efficiently and prevent mistakes. Whenever they are asked to do something, they diligently follow their employers’ instructions to ensure the job is done correctly.

Key Considerations

Language and Cultural Barrier

One of the primary concerns when hiring a Myanmar maid is the potential language and cultural barrier. While many Myanmar maids may have basic proficiency in English or the local language of their host country, communication can still be a challenge, especially during the initial adjustment period. Employers may need to be patient and provide clear instructions to ensure tasks are understood and carried out effectively.

Cultural differences may also manifest in various aspects of daily life, including dietary preferences, religious practices, and social norms. Employers need to be sensitive to these differences and foster an inclusive and supportive environment for their Myanmar maid to thrive. Rest assured, our domestic helpers receive basic English training and local deployment programs to help bridge these gaps and facilitate better integration into your household.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Before hiring a Myanmar maid, you must comply with legal requirements and regulations governing foreign domestic workers in your country. This includes obtaining the necessary work permits, adhering to minimum wage laws, and providing adequate living conditions for your maid.

Additionally, it is important to uphold ethical standards and treat your Myanmar maid with dignity and respect. This includes fair compensation, reasonable working hours, and access to healthcare and rest days as mandated by law. Employers should also be mindful of the potential for exploitation or abuse and take proactive steps to safeguard the well-being of their domestic helper. 

At Bliss Helper, we are committed to making your helper hiring process as smooth as possible. Hence, we will assist in all administrative tasks. Plus, our documentation process is fully online, ensuring a quick and hassle-free experience.

Integration and Support

Successful integration and support ensure a positive working relationship with your Myanmar maid. Employers can facilitate this process by providing orientation and training upon their maid’s arrival, introducing them to household routines and expectations, and offering ongoing guidance and feedback.

Creating a supportive and inclusive environment where your Myanmar maid feels valued and appreciated can enhance job satisfaction and productivity. Encouraging open communication, addressing concerns promptly, and fostering a sense of belonging within the household can contribute to a harmonious working relationship.

To ensure this consideration is met, Bliss Helper provides 2-year WhatsApp support through our dedicated customer service team. We will assist employees with general questions, offer native translation help for better communication, and provide free counselling for helpers who need it, ensuring they have support.  

Conclusion

While hiring a Myanmar maid in Singapore can benefit many families, it is essential to approach the decision thoughtfully. You can determine whether a Myanmar maid fits your family’s needs by considering language and cultural compatibility, legal and ethical considerations, and integration and support.

Fostering mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation is key to building a successful and fulfilling partnership with your Myanmar maid. With the proper support and guidance, they can become valued members of your household, contributing to a happy and harmonious home environment for all.

Still trying to figure out where to start? Contact us today at Bliss Helper, a reliable Myanmar maid agency in Singapore, and we will guide you through the exact steps to successfully hire a Myanmar maid.