Indonesian and Myanmar helpers are very common in Singapore.
Curious about which nationality of helper is better? 🤔
Does nationality even matter when it comes to hiring domestic helpers?
Read more to get some expert industry insights.
Muslim Indonesian Helpers Have To Sacrifice For Singaporeans
Indonesian domestic helpers are generally known for their strong work ethic and flexibility.
They are diligent in completing their assigned tasks, and their ability to communicate in English helps reduce the language barrier. 🗣️
Most Indonesian domestic helpers are Muslims. This means…
- They do not consume pork.
- They are also not allowed to handle dogs.
- Required to pray 5 times a day.
Such ‘restrictions’ can be impractical for many Singaporean households.
For example, some households have pet dogs that require walking, they want dinners cooked with pork dishes, or the amount of work asked of the maid prevents her from praying.
Yet, many Indonesian maids have agreed to job contracts that require walking dogs, preparing pork dishes, and also forgo praying at busy times of the day.
Please be appreciative of the sacrifices of many Indonesian helpers, who are making your lives at home better. 🙏
Buddhist Myanmar Helpers Assimilate Well With Chinese Singaporean Households
Myanmar domestic helpers are quick learners and tend to pick up new skills fast.
Although they may speak little English, they can learn basic English within a short period.
They may have certain dietary restrictions due to their Buddhist beliefs, and their eating habits may differ based on their ethnic background.
However due to their cultural background, in general, they can adapt very well to Chinese families.
Key Differences Between Indonesian and Myanmar Domestic Helpers
One key difference between Indonesian and Myanmar domestic helpers is their language proficiency.
Indonesian domestic helpers generally speak more English, making it easier for them to communicate with their employers.
On the other hand, Myanmar domestic helpers are known for their quick learning abilities, which can help them overcome the language barrier.
Another difference lies in their dietary habits. 🥕
Indonesian domestic helpers may have stricter dietary restrictions due to their Islamic beliefs, while Myanmar domestic helpers may be more flexible in their food choices.
As of writing, the market rate for an Indonesian maid’s salary is more expensive than a Myanmar maid’s.
| Nationality | Salary Range |
| Indonesian | $550 – $880 |
| Myanmar | $450 – $750 |
How To Renew Indonesian Helper Passport?
A valid passport ensures a secure administrative process, including for the purposes of renewal of work permits and residence permits.
Without a passport renewal, the risk of legal issues or deportation is highly likely.
Required Documents For Indonesian Helper Passport Renewal
The maid can do the renewal herself, but she must bring these documents to the appointment:
- Passport
- Work Permit Card
- Employer’s I.C.
- Passport Renewal Form
- Two passport-sized photos (The Embassy has a photo-taking booth too!)
Indonesian Helper Passport Renewal Process
- Make an appointment from the Indonesia embassy website.
- Buy a signpost envelope and bring it along to the appointment.
- Obtain a queue number for passport renewal at the counter.
- Complete the passport renewal form.
- Submit the required document and make the payment of $35 in cash
- Do up and sign the Embassy labour contract.
- The new passport will be couriered over three days later.
How To Renew Myanmar Helper Passport In Singapore?
Due to the conflict in Myanmar, the situation is dynamic and procedures are not as transparent as with the Indonesian Embassy.
The easiest way to renew a Myanmar maid passport is to go to Peninsular Plaza and look for a Burmese travel agent (most of them are Burmese there!) and pay their agency fees.
Hire Indonesian Or Myanmar Maids With A Reliable Maid Agency
While Indonesia and Myanmar helpers have cultural differences, both are good hiring options in Singapore.
Maids work very hard to ensure that the work is done well and sacrifice a lot to come to Singapore. ⭐
Bee Lee Maid Agency works with trusted partners in their home countries to maintain ethical hiring standards, and to place reliable helpers in your home.
Contact Bee Lee today to get your helper!
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