The Philippines' proposal to raise the minimum salary for its domestic helpers from US$400 to US$500 (approximately RM1,800 to RM2,200) has been criticized by the Association of Employment Agencies Malaysia (PAPA), which called it an unnecessary financial burden for employers in Malaysia.
PAPA president Datuk Foo Yong Hooi expressed concerns that the increase could discourage families from hiring domestic workers legally, especially as employers already face rising costs. He also pointed out that Gulf countries had rejected the proposal, and he hoped the Philippines would reconsider its plan for Malaysia.
PAPA also raised concerns over new administrative requirements, such as the appointment of a Philippines Welfare Desk Officer at recruitment agencies, which is not currently supported by Malaysian law. The association urged the Human Resources Ministry to simplify the approval process for hiring foreign workers under the Employment Act 1955, which currently takes at least 14 working days.
PAPA president Datuk Foo Yong Hooi expressed concerns that the increase could discourage families from hiring domestic workers legally, especially as employers already face rising costs. He also pointed out that Gulf countries had rejected the proposal, and he hoped the Philippines would reconsider its plan for Malaysia.
PAPA also raised concerns over new administrative requirements, such as the appointment of a Philippines Welfare Desk Officer at recruitment agencies, which is not currently supported by Malaysian law. The association urged the Human Resources Ministry to simplify the approval process for hiring foreign workers under the Employment Act 1955, which currently takes at least 14 working days.
