More than just a job

From today's SCMP: Hong Kong could face a maid shortage by 2017


Domestic helper agencies in Hong Kong say there could be an acute shortage of maids by 2017 as the Indonesian and Philippines governments plan policies to discourage their citizens from doing such work overseas, the paper says.


Let's see how easy the governments can persuade them. The girls come to HK not just for a job but potential opportunities and new lifestyle, etc.

really..i have ever hear about that.but i'm not sure.they can do that...

Let's just hope the Phils and Indonesian governments give these helpers a reasonable alternative to having to come overseas, rather than just stopping them and leaving them in extreme poverty.


By that stage I'm sure HK will have coooked up its own scheme to keep the people here enslaved to 80 hour weeks ect, perhaps mainlanders as helpers?!?!???!?!?!?


Btw I am all for getting rid of helpers and revamping the work life balance in HK. I prefer to do my own cooking and shopping, and would hire part time help to do the cleaning but its' virtually impossible with the current working philosophy in this town.

It is interesting to note that both Indonesian and Phil. local consulates are supportive of this measure. I think that what will happen is that there will be a ban on all new hires, but that existing contracts can be renewed or grandfathersed in.

However, I hope the govt gives the public a long lead in time before this takes effect. Many elder care families will have hard time. I believe this measure is so locals will begin to take up the slack, the difference is that they won't be willing to work under the same conditions. Ex.l work on a rest day or work until the day's list of duties is completed even if it is 11 pm. The local will be out the door and the employer will be left holding the baby (so to speak). All in all, it needs to happen to make people see how undervalued and overworked the DH is in HK. JMHO

You don't know what you've got til it's gone......