Hiring a domestic helper, often called a maid, can make a huge difference in managing your home efficiently — especially for busy families, elderly care, or childcare needs. In Malaysia, the maid hiring process is regulated by the Department of Labour (Jabatan Tenaga Kerja – JTK) and involves several important steps to ensure both employer and maid are legally protected.
This article provides a complete overview of the maid hiring process in Malaysia, including the required documents, agency procedures, and key considerations before you hire.
1. Determine Your Needs
Before starting the hiring process, it’s important to clearly define what kind of help you need.
Ask yourself:
- Do you need a full-time live-in maid or part-time help?
- Will the maid’s main duties focus on childcare, elderly care, cleaning, or cooking?
- Do you prefer a local or foreign domestic helper (e.g., from Indonesia, the Philippines, Cambodia, or Vietnam)?
Having clarity helps you communicate your expectations with the maid agency and choose a suitable candidate.
2. Choose a Licensed Maid Agency
To hire a foreign domestic worker (FDW) legally, you must go through a licensed maid agency approved by the Ministry of Human Resources (MOHR) and Immigration Department of Malaysia.
A reputable agency will:
- Handle work permit applications and documentation
- Arrange interviews with candidates
- Provide pre-employment medical screening and training
- Manage the maid’s travel, insurance, and contract preparation
⚠️ Tip: Always verify the agency’s license number before engaging their services. This ensures compliance with Malaysian law and protects you from fraudulent operations.
3. Shortlist and Interview Candidates
The agency will provide profiles of available maids that match your criteria. Each profile typically includes:
- Age, nationality, and religion
- Work experience
- Skills and areas of expertise
- Basic education level and language proficiency
You can conduct interviews (either in person or via video call) to assess communication skills and suitability for your household environment.
4. Application for Work Permit and Documentation
Once you’ve selected a candidate, your maid agency will assist with the work permit application process through the Immigration Department.
Documents typically required include:
- Copy of employer’s MyKad / Passport
- Employment contract signed by both parties
- Maid’s passport and medical clearance
- Agency license and supporting documents
The work permit process usually takes 2–4 weeks, depending on document verification and the maid’s country of origin.
5. Medical Check-Up and Insurance
All foreign maids must undergo FOMEMA (Foreign Workers Medical Examination) screening upon arrival in Malaysia. This ensures they are medically fit to work.
Employers are also required to purchase:
- Foreign Worker Hospitalisation & Surgical Insurance (SPIKPA)
- Personal Accident Insurance
These coverages are mandatory under Malaysian law to safeguard both employer and employee in case of accidents or illness.
6. Orientation and Employment Contract
Before starting work, the maid will go through an orientation program conducted by the agency or training centre. This helps her understand Malaysian work culture, household routines, and employer expectations.
The employment contract will outline:
- Salary and rest days
- Working hours and job scope
- Duration of employment (usually 2 years)
- Renewal and termination terms
Both parties should keep a signed copy for reference.
7. Ongoing Support and Renewal
A good maid agency continues to offer post-placement support such as:
- Regular check-ins during the first few months
- Conflict resolution between employer and maid
- Work permit renewal assistance
When the 2-year contract nears expiration, employers can either renew the contract or request a replacement maid if needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Hiring through unlicensed or illegal agents
- Not providing a written employment contract
- Failing to renew work permits or insurance on time
- Ignoring cultural or language barriers
Following proper procedures helps maintain a smooth and legal employment relationship.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a maid in Malaysia is a structured but manageable process when done through the right channels. By understanding each step — from selecting an agency to finalizing contracts — you can ensure a safe, legal, and professional arrangement that benefits both you and your domestic helper.
Whether you’re hiring for childcare, elderly care, or household maintenance, taking the time to follow the proper maid hiring process in Malaysia ensures peace of mind and a long-term, harmonious working relationship.