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Beauty queen who recorded herself scolding maid said she planned to contact ministers: Agency
Posted on 19 September 2024 09:48 am | 72,741 views | 53 comments
Unhappy with her maid, an employer told Regent Maid Agency that she planned to raise her concerns to the Minister of Manpower and the Minister of Home Affairs, claimed the agency.
The employer, Ms L, had previously joined a number of beauty pageants, including Miss Universe Singapore, and won an environment-related title last year.
On Sept 16, Regent Maid Agency shared on Facebook a video of Ms L scolding the maid, apparently recorded by Ms L herself.
In the video, Ms L can be heard exploding at the maid who remained silent and refused to respond to her: "Hello! You think what? My time is very what? What do you think you are?"
The agency said in a Facebook post: "We wish to address a recent situation involving one of our employers who has flagged our agency on social media. Although the employer has not named our agency explicitly, she has indicated that she plans to do so soon."
The agency tried to address Ms L's issues with the maid's language proficiency and performance but to no avail.
"Ms. L has informed us via WhatsApp that she plans to raise her concerns with Dr Tan (See Leng), the Minister in charge of MOM (Ministry of Manpower), Mr Ng Chee Khern, the permanent secretary, and Mr K Shanmugam, the Minister of Home Affairs," said the agency.
"Additionally, as a social media influencer, she intends to publicly highlight her experiences to prevent other employers from facing similar issues."
Statement from the Management of Regent Maid Agency We wish to address a recent situation involving one of our employers who has flagged our agency on social media. Although the employer has not named our agency explicitly, she has indicated that she plans to do so soon. In accordance with the Personal Data Protection Act, we are unable to disclose the employer's identity at this time. Overview of the Situation Employer’s Concerns: The employer, Ms. L, has expressed dissatisfaction with the helper provided by our agency. She has highlighted issues regarding the helper's language proficiency and performance. Despite our efforts to align expectations and offer support, these issues have continued. Specific Notifications: Ms. L has informed us via WhatsApp that she plans to raise her concerns with Dr. Tan, the Minister in charge of MOM, Mr. Ng Chee Khern, the Permanent Secretary, and Mr. K Shanmugam, the Minister of Home Affairs. Additionally, as a social media influencer, she intends to publicly highlight her experiences to prevent other employers from facing similar issues. Detailed Account Initial Complaints: Ms. L reported that the helper did not meet her expectations in terms of English proficiency and work pace. Despite being advised by our agent about these aspects, the helper’s performance remained unsatisfactory. Ms. L implemented a system requiring the helper to document completed chores and their duration, which led to further dissatisfaction. Agency’s Response and Support: Managing Expectations: Our agent worked to manage Ms. L’s expectations concerning the helper's capabilities and salary. Ongoing Support: We provided continuous support to both Ms. L and the helper, including counseling sessions to address the performance and communication issues. Helper’s Distress: The helper experienced significant stress due to the work environment, including instances of verbal abuse. The helper sought assistance and considered repatriation due to the challenging conditions. Further Complaints: Ms. L reported that the helper failed to fill out the chore notebook as required and experienced difficulties in communication. Despite our manager’s intervention to counsel both the helper and Ms. L, the dissatisfaction continued. Resolution Attempts: Ms. L was informed of the agency's policy regarding replacement fees and repatriation costs, which had been previously explained. Despite this, Ms. L’s inquiries and dissatisfaction persisted, even extending beyond working hours. Our Stance and Commitment Appreciation and Acknowledgment: We extend our sincere gratitude to the many employers who trust and support us. Your positive feedback and patience are greatly valued. We regret that some situations are more challenging to resolve. Industry Challenges: Helper Welfare: We acknowledge the challenges faced by helpers, including verbal and mental stress. We continue to address these issues within existing guidelines and will provide feedback to the relevant authorities. Agency Practices: We do not recycle helpers who are unsuitable. Our goal is to find the best fit for both employers and helpers, avoiding unnecessary frustration. Respect and Professionalism: While employers have the right to express their concerns, it is also important to recognize the challenges faced by agencies and helpers. We are committed to handling each case with professionalism and fairness. Thank you for taking the time to read this statement. We hope it provides a clearer understanding of the complexities within our industry. We remain dedicated to improving our services and appreciate the continued support of our valued employers. Note from the Management: We deeply value the support and trust of our employers. Navigating the complexities of this industry can be challenging, and your patience and understanding are crucial. We are committed to providing high-quality service and ensuring a positive experience for all parties involved. Thank you for your continued support
Posted by REGENT MAID AGENCY on Monday 16 September 2024
In response, the agency said its agent worked to manage Ms L’s expectations concerning the maid's capabilities and salary.
"We provided continuous support to both Ms L and the helper, including counselling sessions to address the performance and communication issues," said the agency.
"The helper experienced significant stress due to the work environment, including instances of verbal abuse. The helper sought assistance and considered repatriation due to the challenging conditions."
The agency added: "Ms L was informed of the agency's policy regarding replacement fees and repatriation costs, which had been previously explained. Despite this, Ms L’s inquiries and dissatisfaction persisted, even extending beyond working hours."
A Stomper who had seen the video commented: "As she is an influencer and someone who holds a prestigious title, it is deeply troubling to see such a public figure behaving in this manner.
"This behavior not only reflects poorly on her, but it also sets a negative example, especially considering that she has two young children at home who are likely exposed to this conduct.
"The treatment of domestic helpers in this way is unacceptable and reminiscent of slavery."
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