KUALA LUMPUR, 16 June 2020:
Klang Valley self-service, coin-operated laundry chain dobiQueen sees single mothers as key to its expansion strategy, having established 67 outlets so far in areas like in Ampang, Batu Caves, Kuala Lumpur, Petaling Jaya, Rawang, Shah Alam, Subang Jaya and Puchong.
“The idea for the initiative itself started back in 2017, when we got to know one of our staff who was a single mother. She turned out to be one of the most hardworking team members we’ve ever had, because she appreciated the fact that she had a stable source of income, and the company supported her growth,” said founder Nini Tan in a statement.
Emphasising this insight wasn’t formulated as part of a marketing brainstorm, but grew organically from within, she said: “At the moment, we have less than five single women/mothers working with us. We hope to hire continuously through this initiative, as we never stop looking for good people to grow with us, working to ensure expectations on both sides are met.”
As such, the laundry chain is reaching out to other single mothers struggling with loss of employment or income following the Movement Control Order with it Skim Ratu Rumah hiring campaign. Those who make the cut can expect monthly wages of between RM1,900 and RM3.500, depending on the post offered.
Available for Malaysian applicants staying in the vicinity of dobiQueen outlets, the initiative is open to underprivileged and retrenched women as well, along with sole breadwinners – those who need a source of income the most, said Tan.
“By opening Skim Ratu Rumah to women who live in the vicinity of our outlets, the need to travel around by car or bus is eliminated, while reducing risks of transmission – both crucial measures in our recovery as a nation. This also cuts carbon footprints and unnecessary travel expenses, while keeping them close to their families.
“Successful applicants will be the Queen of the House – both in their own households and in our outlets throughout Klang Valley. They will be our brand representatives, stationed at their neighbourhood dobiQueen outlets. Responsibilities include providing good customer service, and maintaining outlet cleanliness and tidiness synonymous with the dobiQueen brand.
“We feel that the initiative is sustainable because what we’re offering is a livelihood – a chance to provide for themselves and their families. It’s not just a handout, but an opportunity at a time when opportunities are scarce.”
Notably, while other businesses have resorted to dramatic pay cuts, retrenchment or closure in the wake of the Covid-19 crisis, Tan said dobiQueen has continued paying its staff in full. It has also avoided downsizing to reduce overhead expenses, despite being impacted by the Movement Control Order as well..
“Retail has been one of the most affected segments. We know that many are struggling, and would like to work together as we all try to get things back on track to a new norm.”
As an extended part of the initiative, dobiQueen is also providing monthly cash support of RM50 for successful single mother applicants with children under 7 years of age. Those interested in the Skim Ratu Rumah hiring campaign are invited to send their details to [email protected].