 More blow whistle on maid abuse to authorities
MORE people are blowing the whistle - be it to the authorities, maid welfare groups or the media - when they spot maids risking life and limb at work.
Embassies and welfare groups told The Straits Times that the number coming forward when they see hired help perching precariously on window ledges, for example, is on the rise.
Humanitarian Organization for Migration Economics welfare officer Sisi Sukiato, 49, said complaints result in three to four maids being referred to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) each month. This is twice the number of cases it referred to the Ministry in 2005, she said.
"Before, the maids would not report. But more come forward for help now," said Ms Sisi.
Hard evidence, such as photographs snapped by the public, has also helped nab errant employers who put their maids at risk. Members of the public have sent such pictures to both the MOM as well as media outlets like The Straits Times' online portal, Stomp.
In the last two years, six employers have been hauled to court for putting their maids' lives in danger.
Employers who are found guilty of the act can be fined up to $5,000 and jailed up to six months. | 
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