What happens after your maid arrives in Malaysia

After weeks of planning, your helper has arrived. There are still a few formal steps to complete, and the first month at home will shape the whole placement. Here is what to expect.

Formal steps after arrival

Medical examination (FOMEMA)

Foreign domestic helpers must complete a medical examination at a FOMEMA-registered clinic after arriving in Malaysia. The result is needed to complete her work-pass formalities. Your agency will tell you how this is arranged for your helper.

Work pass

Once the required steps are complete, the helper’s work pass is finalised by the authorities. Keep copies of the documents your agency gives you, and note the expiry date so you can plan the renewal early.

Orientation

Before handover, we provide an orientation for the helper, covering household expectations and practical working arrangements in Malaysia.

Handover day

At handover, your agency will go through the key documents and arrangements with you. It is a good time to:

• Confirm the agreed salary payment arrangements and rest day, as set out in the contract
• Exchange contact numbers
• Ask who to contact if you have questions later

The first month at home

Week 1: Settling in

• Show her around the home, her room and the bathroom she will use
• Give her time to rest after travel
• Explain the household routine simply — a written schedule helps
• Show her how to use appliances safely

Weeks 2–3: Building routines

• Demonstrate tasks the way you like them done, rather than only explaining
• Introduce one change at a time
• Praise what goes well and correct gently

Week 4: Review together

• Sit down for a short, friendly conversation: what is going well, and what is difficult?
• Agree on any adjustments

Respect and wellbeing

Your helper is far from home, often for the first time. Simple things help: a private space, regular meals, rest as agreed, and a way to contact her family. Personal documents such as her passport should be handled according to the law and the terms of her contract — ask your agency if you are unsure.

When to call your agency

Call us if you have questions about her documents, if there are communication difficulties you cannot resolve, or if you are thinking about the replacement terms in your package. Early conversations often solve problems before they grow.

We also help when it is time to renew her permit or contract.