Domestic Help ...
It is common practice in Malaysia to have support from a domestic helper. These helpers are locally referred to as amahs, maids or nannies and they are typically Indians, Filipinos or locals. Depending on your needs, you can hire them on a full-time or part-time basis. Usually full-time maids are paid on a monthly basis and are "live in". They live with you and your family which means you provide their food and sometimes toiletries. You also have to make sure that the house you find has an adequate maid's room with bathroom. Part-time maids are paid on an hourly basis and live elsewhere. A maid's salary depends on their skills, work experience and their familiarity with KL. Those who can speak English well and have been in the country for a long time are paid more. Muslim maids do not eat/handle pork (something you need to be aware of if you want them to cook for you) and may not be able to take care of or be in the house with a dog.
Where to find help
There are various ways to find a maid:
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Agencies will arrange all of the necessary papers and pre-screening of applicants. This is quite costly and takes around 3-4 months but it's the safest way to get a foreign maid.
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Notice boards found in supermarkets, expat organisations and school websites have many postings.
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Recommendations from friends and neighbours.
Whatever source you use to find a maid, always verify their work permit and ask for referrals from their previous or current employer.
Be aware that it is forbidden to hire foreign maids without work permits. If you are caught doing so you will be heavily fined, possibly lose your dependent permit and the working spouse's work permit may also be revoked.
Drivers
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