Realistic agency fees could curb exploitation of domestic helpers

A good friend of mine runs a domestic helper agency for Indonesians, and her home is always open to her girls. There can be a dozen congregated there at weekends and public holidays. They enjoy good food and services. Not all agents are evil.

The problem as I see it lies with the unrealistically low agency fees.

These girls are recruited from country villages. They have no experience, even with regard to what here is considered basic household equipment, have never pressed suits, or used vacuum cleaners or dishwashers. They require training and this cannot be provided in their homes.

They are therefore brought together in groups and given lessons in basic household duties. This costs, as they are provided with a dormitory, meals, and bathing and laundry facilities.

When they arrive in Hong Kong, the helpers have to be picked up at the airport; this costs in fares and man-hours. They are then housed by the agency. That's more expense in supervision, food, hot water, toiletries and laundry. Medical expenses are often incurred. Sometimes the helper wants to go home.

Papers have to be prepared for immigration and the consulate and this incurs more fares and man-hours taking them there and back. The cumulative expenditure can run into thousands of dollars.