Singapore’s New Permanent Part‑Time Home‑Service Scheme
On September 1, Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) is turning a popular trial into a lifelong service. The Hive‑in‑Your‑Home scheme (HSS) that let folks hire part‑time cleaners will officially tick the “permanent” box.
What’s Up With the HSS?
- Started in 2017 with just 15 companies.
- Now 76 firms are in the game.
- They’ve serviced 10,000+ homes—and that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
- Beyond vacuuming, workers can now fetch groceries, wash cars, or give your dog a gentle “walk‑and‑talk.”
Why the Switch to Permanent?
The MOM says the evidence is clear: the pilot was a hit, with strong demand and stellar feedback from companies and their clients. When people asked for more services and the system could handle it, the policymakers went full‑scale.
Next Step: Keep Watching
MOM will keep an eye on how many people want the services, and if they see a need, they might broaden the scope even further.
Who Can Work?
Unlike full‑time domestic helpers who live with one household, HSS workers are roving professionals. They live in company‑provided housing and can juggle duties across multiple homes on a part‑time schedule.
- Current flagships include female workers from India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, China, Malaysia, Taiwan, and South Korea.
- Starting September 1, you’ll also see talent coming from Cambodia, giving employers more options for manpower.
- Companies can apply for extra work‑permit quotas based on their staffing mix and size.
Behind the Scenes: Kelvin Chang’s Take
Kelvin Chang, the clean‑lab business development and HR manager, outlined the buzz:
- His crew of about 40 cleaners cleans around 30 houses a week and bills between $25‑$35 per hour, depending on how often they drop by.
- More than half are older local workers in their 50s—a solid workforce of experience.
- There’s a growing demand for grocery shopping, so his team is planning to roll that out soon, with car washing and dog walking on the horizon.
“We’re building a grocery‑shop squad because homeowners expect fresh produce,” Chang said. “It’s a new skill set, and we’re training our crew accordingly.”
Takeaway for Homeowners
Want a tidy apartment but not ready to hire a full‑time helper? The HSS lets you hire a polished, skilled worker on a part‑time basis—no permanent living arrangement, no extra paperwork. And with more countries on the roster, you’re likely to find someone who fits your needs.
So, if your house needs a touch of sparkle or a grocery run, check out the HSS approved companies. It’s official, it’s accessible, and it’s here to stay.
