HOUSEKEEPING ensures spotless homes, yet the work is often undervalued.
For student Maisarah Mohd Nor Hakim, however, it is a pursuit she embraces during her free time – it has become her therapy, her business, and a bridge to a future she is building on her own terms.
From scrubbing floors late into the night to quiet her thoughts, she has turned that therapeutic outlet into a source of income – starting at RM10 per hour with a housekeeping company, before striking out on her own. Today, she provides specialised cleaning services for high-end homestays and bungalows, earning well above her initial rate.
“I offered housekeeping to one house owner first. Then, I contacted homestay owners. I reached out to people I knew and explained what I could offer. Slowly, those houses became my regular clients,” she said.
While her housekeeping business is gaining momentum, Maisarah intends to gain classroom experience as a teacher after graduating, before pursuing a master’s degree, while continuing to run her cleaning services.
She said education represents long-term growth and stability.
“Housekeeping has given me independence and valuable life experience, but I see my degree as a foundation that can open more opportunities in the future, especially in the field of education,” she said.
What does a typical workday really look like?
Maisarah: My days start early. I plan my workflow carefully – which rooms to clean first, followed by the bathrooms, and then the common areas. For very large houses, I bring along one or two trusted helpers.
Laundry is handled systematically: sorted on-site, labelled and sent to the laundromat.
Timing is crucial, especially when there are guest check-ins.
What skills or mindset matter more than grades?
Maisarah: My TESL studies have helped me more than people might expect. Communication skills allow me to interact with clients professionally, while organisational skills help me manage schedules and responsibilities.
Teaching has also trained me to be patient, clear-headed and adaptable – qualities that I use daily in my housekeeping work.
Another advantage that has helped me gain clients is language. I can speak several languages, including Mandarin, which makes a big difference when working with homeowners and business clients.
Being able to communicate in their language helps build trust quickly. Conversations become easier, expectations are clearer, and relationships feel more personal.
Beyond language, I focus on maintaining strong work ethics, professionalism and consistency – because trust is ultimately built through quality and reliability.
What is one common misconception about this job?
Maisarah: When people ask what I do and I say I am a housekeeper, I sometimes sense their judgement.
But I no longer feel the need to explain myself. I know my income, I know my clients, and I know that I earn more than some office jobs pay, while enjoying flexibility and freedom. Once you understand your worth, the stigma loses its power.
What is the most challenging and most rewarding part of the work?
Maisarah: The hardest part of this journey is not the physical cleaning, but managing everything behind the scenes – bookings, transport, laundry logistics, finances, supplies and time.
Balancing housekeeping and studies is not easy. One of my biggest challenges is time, especially when a job takes longer than expected and I still have to rush to class.
At the same time, the reward is the autonomy it gives me.
Beyond the income, the most satisfying part is the transformation itself – walking into a messy, neglected space and leaving it clean, calm and peaceful.
On a personal level, I am proud that I achieved my biggest dream: living independently.
What advice would you give to students considering this path?
Maisarah: If you have something in mind, start now. Don’t wait and don’t be afraid to take small steps. Do what you truly want to do, and let go of the things that stop you from trying. We are still young – enjoy the journey.
*Individuals are featured in their personal capacity. Views expressed do not represent any organisation.
Daniel, 23, a student in Perak, is a participant of the BRATs Young Journalist Programme run by The Star’s Newspaper-in-Education (Star-NiE) team. This feature is part of a series highlighting young working adults who share insights into their jobs and offer practical tips on thriving in the workplace. For updates on the BRATs programme, go to facebook.com/niebrats.
With the theme of the article in mind, carry out the following English language activities.
1 If you could turn one hobby into a small business while studying, what would it be? How would you start it? Present a mind map in class outlining your business idea, target audience and first steps.
2 In groups, brainstorm a list of undervalued or often overlooked jobs. Discuss why these jobs are important and how we can show appreciation for the workers. Present your ideas to the class.
The Star’s Newspaper-in-Education (Star-NiE)
programme promotes English language learning in primary and secondary schools nationwide. For Star-NiE enquiries, email starnie@thestar.com.my.
