Can My Helper Go to JB or Batam on Her Day Off?
A common question many employers ask is:
“Can my helper go to Johor Bahru (JB) or Batam on her rest day?”
Short answer:
✅ Yes — in general, she can.
What MOM Allows
Under Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) regulations:
- Migrant Domestic Workers (MDWs) are entitled to weekly rest days
- On her rest day, a helper is generally free to decide how she spends her time
This includes:
- Going out with friends
- Attending courses
- Travelling to JB or Batam
As long as:
- She returns to Singapore on time
- Her work permit remains valid
- There is no breach of employment conditions
Employers cannot unreasonably restrict a helper’s movement on her rest day.
Important Things Employers Should Take Note Of
✅ Passport Access
- Helpers must have access to their own passport
- Employers are not allowed to withhold passports
- Keeping a helper’s passport is against MOM rules
✅ Immigration & Entry Requirements
- Helpers are responsible for:
- A valid passport
- Any required visas
- Entry requirements of Malaysia or Indonesia
- Employers are not liable if entry is denied due to immigration issues
✅ Returning on Time
- Helpers must return before the next working day
- Late return may be treated as:
- Absence from work
- A discipline or performance issue (handled properly and professionally)
✅ Safety Considerations
While employers cannot ban travel outright, it is reasonable to:
- Discuss safety calmly
- Encourage travel with friends
- Avoid risky areas
- Keep emergency contact details
Can Employers Say “No”?
Employers cannot impose a blanket ban on overseas travel during rest days.
However, discussion may be appropriate if :
- There is a history of late returns
- Serious safety or welfare concerns exist
- Travel affects work performance due to fatigue or absenteeism
Any restrictions should be reasonable, justified, and documented.
Best Practice for Employers
✅ Respect rest days as personal time
✅ Communicate clearly about return times
✅ Keep copies — not originals — of documents
✅ Treat helpers as adults
✅ Build trust, not control
MOM Reference Links (Official)
- Weekly Rest Days for Migrant Domestic Workers
https://www.mom.gov.sg/employment-practices/employment-rights-and-conditions/weekly-rest-day - Employment Rights of Migrant Domestic Workers
https://www.mom.gov.sg/employment-practices/employment-rights-and-conditions/employment-rights-of-foreign-workers - Employers Must Not Withhold Helpers’ Passports
https://www.mom.gov.sg/faq/work-permit-for-foreign-worker/can-i-keep-my-foreign-worker-passport - Responsibilities of Employers of Migrant Domestic Workers
https://www.mom.gov.sg/employment-practices/employing-foreign-workers/employer-responsibilities - Unacceptable Employment Practices
https://www.mom.gov.sg/employment-practices/fair-employment-practices/unacceptable-employment-practices
