Introduction

SINGAPORE: A social media inquiry from an employer about the cost of building a house for her maid sparked a heartwarming conversation among domestic helpers about their financial achievements and aspirations back in their home countries. This discussion highlighted the profound impact that working in Singapore has on the lives of these workers, enabling them to invest in property, land, and even vehicles.

Building Dreams Home

After completing a two-year contract, one Indonesian helper managed to save enough money to purchase land in her home country, marking the first step towards her dream of building a home. The employer, who posted her question in an online support group, sought insights from others regarding the savings needed to construct a house on that land.

Responses poured in from fellow domestic workers, detailing their experiences of building homes. One helper shared that she built her house just last year near Palembang at a cost of approximately $45,000 to $50,000. Her house, which she designed for future expansion, includes one bedroom, two bathrooms, and a spacious hall with an open kitchen. She proudly stated that it took her 15 years to save for this achievement, explaining that it was a long and challenging process, but worth every sacrifice to finally have a place she could call home.

Another contributor highlighted that the cost of building a basic single-story house with three rooms can start at around S$20,000. However, constructing a multi-level house significantly increases expenses due to the need for materials like iron and concrete necessary for structural support.

Empowerment and Success Stories

The conversation took a lively turn when a Filipino domestic worker named @shery2291 responded to a netizen's derogatory comment about her job on TikTok. The sassy retort showcased her pride and success, revealing that despite being a maid, she owns a car and has three houses in Cavite, as well as two plots of land near a beach. She emphasized the opportunities Singapore has afforded her to save and invest wisely for her future, countering negative perceptions with a message of empowerment.

A Growing Trend

Beyond the individual stories, this phenomenon highlights an emerging trend: many domestic workers are using their earnings in Singapore as a stepping stone towards financial stability and home ownership in their native countries. Their journeys portray the transformative power of hard work and dedication, turning perceived roles of servitude into pathways of success and pride.

Conclusion

With a growing number of maids able to create substantial wealth, this brings attention to the larger socio-economic impacts of foreign labor in Singapore, as well as the dreams and aspirations that motivate these workers. As they continue to build their futures, they challenge stereotypes, proving that their work is not just a job, but a means to achieve a better life for themselves and their families.