Experts say Hong Kong's 360,000 foreign domestic helpers, who support nearly one-eighth of local households and account for some 10 percent of the local workforce by engaging in childcare and elderly care, are making special contributions to families and the society.
The history of foreign domestic helpers in Hong Kong dates back to the 1970s, when the city's rapid economic growth and accelerated urbanization led to busier lifestyles and a rise in dual-income families, creating substantial demand for live-in domestic support. In response, the local government introduced policies allowing employees to hire foreign domestic helpers when local labor could not meet household needs.
At around 6 am, Erlinda, a 29-year-old foreign domestic who has lived in Hong Kong for years, rises quietly to prepare breakfast, tidy the home and escort her employer's children to school. After finishing her morning housekeeping, she heads to the market to shop for ingredients for lunch and dinner.
Erlinda now speaks fluent Cantonese. By 10 pm, she concludes her daily duties, checks the doors and windows, and finally rests. The next morning, she will begin the cycle all over again, right on time.
Erlinda's daily routine is emblematic of the experiences of foreign domestic helps in Hong Kong, who are enabling many local residents to pursue their careers.
The majority of these helpers come from the Philippines and Indonesia, though in recent years, their numbers from Bangladesh, Myanmar and Thailand have also grown. It has been learned that those like Erlinda, who are fluent in both Cantonese and English, tend to be more competitive in the employment market.
Many employment agencies note that foreign domestic helpers have become a vital part of Hong Kong's household services sector. Their presence not only alleviates pressure on local families in terms of child-rearing and elderly care, but also contributes significantly to the shaping of communities.
As the number of foreign domestic helpers in Hong Kong has continued to increase, the helpers' terms of employment have become increasingly standardized.
Due to their professional training and strong work ethics, foreign domestic helpers consistently receive high praise from Hong Kong residents. Before arriving in Hong Kong, the helpers must undergo a structured process, with the first step being signing a standard employment contract — the only version recognized by the Hong Kong immigration department with outlines key terms such as salary, working hours, contract duration and termination conditions.
Next, they must apply for a work visa, and also undergo over 100 hours of professional training covering such skills as home appliance maintenance and child care. Moreover, consulates of the helpers' home countries and numerous community-based organizations provide psychological support and legal assistance, fostering a strong sense of community.
Industry analysts noted that while other popular destinations like Singapore and the Middle East also attract foreign domestic helpers, Hong Kong's rigorous contractual procedures in ensuring safety and legal protection are a special lure.
One expert stressed that from a macro perspective, working in Hong Kong represents a life-changing opportunity for many: "Although it means years of separation from family and facing various challenges alone in a foreign land, they are willing to take this step bravely in pursuit of a better life."
For many, working in Hong Kong allows them to secure a stable income that places their families in the upper-income bracket in their home countries, providing a relatively comfort and secure life.
In addition, as the helpers return home after working in Hong Kong, they bring back new perspectives, practical skills and capital, which they often invest in their hometowns, inspiring others to see the positive potential of working in Hong Kong.
It has been learned that through the dedicated and hard work of foreign domestic helpers, they provide essential services to Hong Kong families — contributing to the stability of society.
"Their contributions are widely recognized and respected in Hong Kong. Through daily interaction, they gradually integrate into the fabric of Hong Kong society, becoming part of the community — the new Hong Kongers," said one local expert.
京公网安备 11010202009201号