Tasks That Can and Cannot Be Assigned to Domestic Helpers in Indonesia
In Indonesia, domestic helpers play a central role in many households—supporting daily routines, caring for children, managing chores, and keeping things running smoothly. But despite their importance, there’s still confusion about which tasks are reasonable to assign and which may cross the line in terms of ethics, safety, or fairness 🧹🍳.
Some families unintentionally blur boundaries, asking helpers to take on responsibilities they’re not trained for or uncomfortable with. Others might assume “everything” falls under domestic work—when in fact, clear limits help maintain a respectful and professional home environment.
This guide is here to clarify those boundaries. We’ll explore which duties are commonly handled by domestic helpers in Indonesia, which tasks should be avoided, and why open communication and mutual respect are key to daily harmony 💛
Whether you’re managing a home in Bali or elsewhere in Indonesia, understanding these distinctions helps everyone feel valued, safe, and supported.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Role of Domestic Helpers in Indonesia
In Indonesian homes, especially in places like Bali and Jakarta, domestic helpers are often seen as trusted members of the household.
They support daily life in many ways—from cleaning and cooking to helping with children or running errands. But understanding the scope of their role is essential for creating a respectful and balanced working environment 🏡🌿
Traditionally, a domestic helper in Indonesia is expected to handle household chores such as tidying up, washing dishes, doing laundry, sweeping, mopping, and sometimes basic meal prep. In some homes, they also assist with childcare or accompany the family during outings.
However, not all helpers are trained for all tasks. Some specialize in cleaning only, while others have childcare experience or can cook. This is why it’s important not to assume that every helper can—or should—do everything.
By defining the helper’s role early and checking in regularly, families can ensure that responsibilities match the helper’s comfort, skills, and expectations.
This builds mutual trust and prevents misunderstandings—especially in multicultural or bilingual homes where communication can vary 💛🗣️
Common Household Tasks Helpers Can Do
Domestic helpers in Indonesia are often highly experienced in managing the daily flow of home life.
Depending on the arrangement and their background, there are many household tasks that fall well within the typical responsibilities of a domestic helper—especially when mutual expectations are clearly discussed from the start 🧹🧺
Here are common tasks domestic helpers usually perform:
Cleaning and tidying up: Sweeping, mopping, dusting, and organizing are often the core of a helper’s daily routine.
Laundry and ironing: Washing clothes, folding, and ironing (if requested) are usually part of the job.
Dishwashing and kitchen cleanup: Keeping the kitchen clean, including washing dishes and wiping down surfaces, is widely accepted.
Basic cooking or food prep: Some helpers are happy to assist with simple meal prep or even cook full meals, depending on their skills.
Child supervision: Helping care for children, especially in supportive roles like school drop-offs, meal assistance, or light playtime, is common in many households.
Running local errands: Picking up groceries, sending packages, or shopping at the market may also be part of a helper’s role, particularly in urban or tourist areas.
These tasks are typically considered standard for many domestic helpers in Indonesia, especially when proper training, tools, and respectful communication are in place.
That said, every home is different. Before assigning new responsibilities, it’s always a good idea to check in with your helper and ensure they’re comfortable with the tasks you’re asking them to take on 🧡🤝
Tasks That Require Caution or Extra Agreement
While many domestic helpers in Indonesia are capable and willing to take on various duties, some tasks fall into a gray area. These aren’t necessarily “off-limits,” but they do require special attention, clear consent, and sometimes additional training or compensation 🤝⚠️
Here are some examples of tasks that should only be assigned with extra care:
🧒 Full-Time Childcare Without Support
If a helper is expected to handle full-time childcare—especially with infants or multiple young children—this goes beyond general supervision. It may require additional experience, training in child safety, and higher levels of trust and communication.
🧑🦳 Elderly Care or Special Needs Support
Assisting the elderly or individuals with disabilities includes tasks that may be physical or medical in nature. If your helper doesn’t have professional training in caregiving, these duties should not be assumed without discussion.
🧼 Deep Cleaning or Hazardous Work
Tasks such as cleaning moldy areas, using strong chemicals, or climbing ladders to clean high places can be unsafe. Helpers should never be asked to do anything that risks injury without the right tools, support, or agreement.
🐶 Pet Care and Grooming
Feeding pets or walking a dog might be fine, but tasks like bathing large animals or cleaning up after them daily may not be expected—and should always be discussed first.
🧾 Handling Money or Personal Documents
Running errands that involve cash or legal documents requires trust and clarity. Not all helpers are comfortable managing money or delivering sensitive paperwork, especially without written guidelines.
When in doubt, ask. A respectful conversation can go a long way in setting fair expectations. And if a task feels more specialized or physically demanding, consider whether it might fall outside the usual scope of work for a domestic helper in Indonesia.
What Should Not Be Assigned to Domestic Helpers
While domestic helpers in Indonesia often go above and beyond in supporting families, there are certain tasks that are widely considered inappropriate, unsafe, or outside the scope of ethical domestic work. Assigning these duties can lead to discomfort, misunderstandings, or even legal issues 🚫⚖️
Here are some examples of tasks that should not be assigned to domestic helpers:
🛠️ Construction, Repairs, or Technical Work
Helpers are not trained technicians or handymen. They should not be asked to fix electrical wiring, plumbing issues, roofs, or operate heavy tools. These tasks require certified professionals for safety and liability reasons.
🏗️ Carrying Heavy Objects or Doing Intense Physical Labor
Moving large furniture, lifting heavy boxes, or working long hours in extreme heat can put your helper’s health at risk. Such tasks fall outside of reasonable household responsibilities.
🚘 Driving Without a License
If your helper does not have a valid driver’s license or insurance coverage, asking them to drive—even for a short errand—is not only risky but illegal. Always check local regulations and avoid putting your helper in a situation that could result in fines or danger.
🛏️ Highly Personal or Intimate Tasks
Helpers should never be asked to perform duties that are too personal or invasive—such as massaging adults, managing private hygiene, or sleeping in the same room as employers unless previously agreed and clearly understood.
📱 Personal Errands Unrelated to Household Duties
Asking a helper to manage your social media, personal shopping, or unrelated work errands (especially without notice) steps into unprofessional territory unless it’s discussed and mutually accepted as part of their job.
Respecting your helper’s limits not only keeps the working relationship positive, but also reflects your commitment to fairness and safety in the home. Boundaries are there not to restrict—but to protect both your family and the domestic helper in Indonesia who supports you every day 💛
Safety and Legal Considerations in Daily Duties
When assigning tasks to domestic helpers in Indonesia, safety and fairness must come first. Even without strict national laws for domestic workers, having a clear work agreement (covering duties, hours, and days off) is strongly recommended 📝⚖️
Employers are responsible for providing a safe environment. That means:
No exposure to dangerous chemicals without protection
No tasks involving faulty wiring, slippery areas, or risky repairs
Proper tools for cleaning and cooking tasks
If your helper works with children, elderly family members, or the kitchen, take time to explain basic emergency steps and safety rules. A few minutes of guidance can prevent serious accidents 🔐
Respecting safety isn’t just thoughtful—it helps protect your helper and builds a strong, professional relationship built on trust 💛
Cultural Sensitivities to Keep in Mind
Working with domestic helpers in Indonesia means recognizing and respecting cultural norms that may differ from your own. A little cultural understanding goes a long way toward building trust and preventing discomfort 🌿
🕌 Religious Practices
Many helpers in Indonesia are Muslim or Balinese Hindu. Respecting prayer times, dress modesty, and food preferences (like halal meals) shows care and consideration.
🗣️ Communication Styles
Some helpers may be shy or avoid direct confrontation. This doesn’t mean they agree with everything—they might just be showing politeness. Always invite open conversation in a calm, respectful tone.
🛏️ Personal Space and Privacy
Live-in helpers deserve rest time and private space. Avoid assigning tasks too early in the morning or too late at night without agreement.
Being culturally aware isn’t just polite—it’s essential. It helps create a home where your domestic helper feels safe, understood, and respected 💛
How to Set Boundaries and Communicate Clearly
One of the best ways to build a respectful relationship with your domestic helper in Indonesia is by setting clear, kind boundaries from the start. This helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures that everyone feels comfortable with their responsibilities 🗣️🤝
📝 Be Specific and Honest
Don’t assume your helper knows your preferences. Make a simple list of daily and weekly tasks. Be open about what you expect, and ask what they’re comfortable doing.
🕰️ Respect Time and Rest
Clarify working hours, break times, and days off. Helpers need structure and balance just like anyone else.
🧏 Encourage Feedback
Ask for their input. “Is this schedule okay with you?” or “Would you prefer a different method?” shows you value their voice and care about their wellbeing.
When communication is clear, and boundaries are respected, your home becomes a more peaceful, professional, and positive place—for both your family and your helper 💛
FAQs About Domestic Helper Responsibilities in Indonesia
Q1: Can a domestic helper take care of my baby full-time?
A: Yes, but only if they are comfortable and experienced. Always discuss duties clearly and avoid assigning full responsibility without support. 👶
Q2: Is it okay to ask my helper to do pet care?
A: Feeding or walking pets is fine if agreed upon. But tasks like bathing large dogs or cleaning litter boxes should be discussed in advance. 🐶
Q3: Can I ask my helper to work overtime?
A: Occasional overtime is okay if agreed on and fairly compensated. Always respect rest days and avoid last-minute requests. 🕒
Q4: Should I give my helper a written task list?
A: Yes! It helps avoid confusion and gives both sides clear expectations. Keep it simple, honest, and flexible. 📝
Q5: Are there tasks that are legally off-limits?
A: Yes—unsafe tasks like electrical repairs, driving without a license, or handling toxic chemicals should never be assigned. ⚠️