It is disturbing and discouraging to read repeatedly about the number of poor and unfortunate domestics helpers who have been badly treated abroad by their employers, particularly in certain Arab countries and Malaysia, even though these countries are considered good and friendly nations.
As reported by the media, some of the migrant workers are not well documented and registered and are considered as illegal immigrants.
Other unfortunate workers are not paid according to their existing contracts, which should be agreed upon by both parties, while at the same time some domestic workers even experience worse conditions, being tortured and raped by their employers.
The poor treatment is not only experienced by the unskilled workers but also by the skilled workers. It seems that the problems are caused by local conditions such as an absence of local regulations on the protection of domestic helpers, which should be heeded by the receiving countries. Skills mean nothing if law enforcement is not properly taken care of.
Hence, it is time the Indonesian government enforced the relevant laws and regulations as a requirement of recruitment of domestic helpers, which includes instruction in martial arts for the candidates.
I would like to share my experience Hong Kong in 1999-2002.
I urged the domestic helpers to join taekwondo classes organized by Hong Kong former Gurkhas Regiment during their weekend leisure time. It is expected that at least they would be able to mingle with local people and develop a better network in social activities with the local community including the local community security system, police hotline and neighborhood watch system.
Hopefully, the relevant institutions such as the Manpower and Transmigration Ministry will take this matter into serious consideration. Better late than never!
SAHAT SITORUS
Jakarta
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