The Sunday Times, 12 September 2004: News

DOS AND DON'TS
Some (silly - no, absurd and perfectly ridiculous) things employers want their maids to do . . .

1. You get your full salary only after your contract expires in two years.

2. You must give your hongbao money to Madam for safekeeping.

3. You must wash baby's toys during the day if they are dirty. At night, all toys which baby played with must be washed.

4. You can only go to bed after you kill a cockroach or a lizard.

5. You must repair the TV before you go to bed.

6. You must carry baby and cook at the same time.

7. You must hang Ah Ma and Madams underwear on separate bamboo poles.

8. You must not have any money on you.

9. When reprimanded, you must look down, smile and say, "Thank you".

10. You cannot use the toilet.

11. You must hide in the kitchen when Sir comes home.

12. You must not smile at or talk to neighbors and their maids.

13. You cannot sit on the chair or sofa. You must sit on the floor when taking instructions.

14. You must wear jeans and long-sleeved blouses at all times.

15. You must not look out of the balcony window.

16. You must ask for permission before opening any cabinet.

17. Do not try to do "weirdo things" inside the house.

18. You can shower only once a day, but must not be smelly.

19. You must clean the floor with a cloth, not a mop.

20. Do not eat any food not allocated to you.