Planning to Travel Home for Lebaran? Here Are 4 Things to Consider When Choosing a Domestic Helper

Jakarta, VIVA – As the holy month of Ramadan approaches through to Eid al-Fitr, demand for domestic helpers (ART) tends to increase significantly. The mudik (homecoming) tradition, an inseparable part of the Lebaran celebration, leads many domestic workers to choose to return to their hometowns.

This situation drives urban families to seek replacement workers at short notice. It is not only domestic helpers in demand — requests for babysitters, caregivers, and private drivers also surge. The Lebaran period is frequently cited as the time of highest demand for domestic workers each year, making it essential that the search process is carried out carefully and with proper planning.

Amid this heightened demand, many families face challenges in making the right choice. Beyond considering safety and comfort factors, the issue of fair wage standards often becomes a dilemma due to the lack of clear references. It is therefore important for families to pay attention to a number of crucial aspects before deciding to recruit either temporary or permanent domestic helpers during the Lebaran mudik period.

Here are four things to consider:

1. Matching Needs and Skills

Every family has different needs. Some require domestic helpers for general household work, whilst others need babysitters or caregivers with specialised skills. Ensure that candidates have relevant experience and are able to adapt to the work rhythm in your home, particularly when the workload increases in the lead-up to and during Lebaran.

2. Availability and Work Commitment

As the Lebaran period is synonymous with high mobility, it is important to ensure that the domestic helper has a clear work commitment for the agreed period. A written employment agreement, even if temporary in nature, can help avoid misunderstandings regarding working hours, days off, and daily responsibilities.

3. Credibility and Security

Security is the top priority. Ensure that domestic helpers are recruited through trusted agencies or platforms that have identity verification systems and clear employment track records. A transparent selection process can minimise risks and provide peace of mind during the mudik period.

4. Fair and Transparent Remuneration

Consideration of fair and transparent wages is an essential aspect when hiring domestic helpers, ensuring that both parties have clear expectations regarding compensation for work performed during this high-demand period.