Big News: Singapore Ministry Stomps on the Online “Maid Marketplace”
In what could be one of the most bizarre digital sales floors since “Coco’s Kitchen” (no, that’s not what we’re talking about), the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has discovered that some folks on the popular app Carousell are actually flipping foreign domestic workers like second‑hand phones.
What We’ve Unpacked
- On Friday night, September 14, MOM posted a fiery Facebook update, saying it was “aware of cases where foreign domestic workers are being marketed inappropriately on…Carousell.”
- The ministry is actively investigating every single one and has moved to remove all the offending listings.
- One listing from a user named @maid.recruitment turned the app into a maiden parade, with photographs of several alleged Indonesian maids displayed FRONT AND CENTER.
- Even chillingly, some of the profiles descry that the maids are “sold,” literally marketed as purchasable commodities.
Carousell’s Quick Response
When the Straits Times reached out, a Carousell spokesperson quipped, “These listings are not allowed on our marketplace in line with our community guidelines.”
What Does This Mean for the Future?
Beyond the immediate fallout—like stricter policy enforcement and possible legal repercussions for the sleazy sellers—this incident underscores a growing need for clearer online security measures and stronger regulation of digital labor marketplaces. It’s a stark reminder that in the world of click‑and‑sell, patience, vigilance and a solid set of rules are keys to avoiding real‑world heartbreaks.
Bottom Line: No More “Maid Sales” on Carousell
As MOM and Carousell gear up for a tighter oversight regime, one thing’s certain: People can’t just trade human life like neon wares. It’s a tough lesson learned—incrementally—and we’ll be watching closely to see if the code continues to be enforced—or “sell”-ed away. Stay tuned, folks!
Carousell Hits the Lottery Jackpot—Over 80,000‑Dollar Fine for Mah Jokes
Picture a bright, flashy screenshot from Carousell—mixed with a dash of drama. The platform, known for selling everything from vintage sneakers to new‑in‑store gadgets, recently found itself at the center of a raccoon‑wreaked over-feed incident—and not the cute kind of raccoon.
What Went Wrong?
While sellers can advertise almost anything, listing people for hire is strictly forbidden. Carousell’s spokesperson rolled out the rule‑book update with a sigh.
- Personal biodata on display? Not allowed.
- Actual sale? Nothing took place.
- Still, any detected sale will be swiftly removed.
“We’re turning up the scrimmage for authorities,” the spokesperson offered. “In this instance, we’re partnering with the law to keep the market clean.”
What Happened to the Account?
Carousell has promptly suspended the offending account and scrubbed the entire listing pile. The move shows that even a platform that aims for community vibes isn’t shy about sticking to the rule‑bound broom.
Regulatory Skate‑board Response
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) slammed the practice straight off the bat. “Advertising maids like commodities is unacceptable,” their post declared, citing the Employment Agencies Act (EAA).
- If an agency breaches the act, it could lose its licence, receive demerits, and even be tackled for fines or jail.
- For a guilty party: up to $80,000, up to two years in prison, or a combo of both.
- Customers who use unlicensed agencies face their own penalties—up to $5,000 fine.
MOM also reminded anyone hunting for a new baby‑hugger or a kitchen wizard: contact only MOM‑licensed agencies. Confirm an agency’s status on www.mom.gov.sg/eadirectory, or else you might end up hiring a mythical creature.
First‑Time Notice
The Carousell spokesman clarified that this was their first encounter with such a listing. “We’re on the lookout,” he added, urging members to flag suspicious posts. “We aim to keep shoppers safe and keep our detection tech sharper than a sushi chef’s knife.”
Bottom Line
Whether you’re scrolling for your next PS5 or a part‑time extra‑staff, remember: the market has rules. Stay within the lines, keep it genuine, and above all—respect the people behind the listings. And if you come across a shady listing, hit the flag button. It’s a simple way to help keep Carousell a trustworthy playground for all.
