No Off Day

I came across this Ad back in Apr 2007. Yes, it is yet another very overdue entry. It was forgotten along the way until I came across the photo recently.

It is openly advertising "NO OFF DAY" when you hire domestic helpers. At that point, it dawned upon me that this could be a rather inhumane trade. Sometimes they add words like obedient and well-trained. Are we talking about human beings or Labradors?

Now, as an employer of a domestic helper myself, I can comprehend why the need of "No Off Day". But I am glad I am not guilty of "Lowest Pay & Fee". My agency was definitely not one that charges cheapest pay and fee.

I feel, during Off Days, these helpers are exposed to other helpers and other foreign workers, some of whom may not exactly be the best of influence to them.

My conscience is clear because I don't lock my helper at home. She goes out with me every weekend, exploring Singapore's places of interest and enjoying food from restaurants spread across the island.

...the one whose helper is happily eating the Cheesedale cheese and Magnolia fresh milk off the fridge. Would you allow that?