Parents In Klang Valley To Fork Out Extra For Babysitters After Minimum Wage Hike

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Zuriati Abu Wahab, a caregiver with over two decades of experience, told Kosmo! that she had informed the parents that she would increase her babysitting fees by RM50 to allow them to prepare in advance.

"As usual, whenever salaries go up or bonuses are given, prices rise. We (caregivers) also need to cover our living expenses," she said, adding that she will charge RM650 for infants aged three months to one year.

For children aged one to two years, her fees will rise by RM30 to RM480. School-going children who transit at her care will incur a charge of RM430, with a late pickup fee of RM10 per hour.

The 49-year-old believes that the increases are reasonable and in line with the rising cost of living.

Another caregiver, known only as Esah, 51, also plans to raise her fees by RM20 next year.

Currently, she charges RM630 per month for infants, a rate that will increase to RM650.

Esah noted that she has not adjusted her rates in two years and limits her capacity to three children to ensure that she can provide adequate care and attention, reported the New Straits Times.

"I manage their meals; parents only need to drop off their children with formula and clothing. I take care of everything else," she said, emphasising that each caregiver's approach may differ.

Hayati, 54, another long-time caregiver, also plans to increase her fees by RM50, bringing her monthly charges to RM500. For the past 10 years, she has maintained her rate at RM450 but now feels that an adjustment is necessary to cover her own expenses, according to Kosmo!

"Currently, the average cost per day is about RM22.50 per child. If parents find it expensive, they should consider the rising costs of goods and the annual salary increases," she said, adding that she is open to discussions with families who have multiple children in her care.