Domestic Workers on Rest Day

Domestic workers in Central. Photo: Angelina Qiu, Empower Hong Kong (Lead Photographer)

On Sundays, the streets of Central, Mong Kok, and various other bridges across Hong Kong transform into gathering spaces for domestic workers (FDW). Lined with cardboard boxes, the air hums with the sound of karaoke, guitars, and laughter. Snack wrappers crinkle as friends connect, and despite the weather — whether torrential rain or scorching sun — you’ll always find domestic workers making the most of their well-earned day off. 

Domestic workers do more than support Hong Kong’s economy: they enrich the city’s social and cultural fabric. Predominantly from the Philippines and Indonesia, this community of individuals brings with it a diverse blend of ethnicities, languages, and faiths that add to the vibrancy of Hong Kong’s multicultural identity. 

For many, Sundays represent more than just a break from the demanding routine of cooking, cleaning, and childcare. It is often the only day of the week when they can fully reconnect, socialise, and recharge after a long week of work. This weekly rest day appears a luxury but is actually a legal right under Hong Kong’s labour laws—a crucial lifeline that helps maintain the balance between work and personal well-being. 

Yet, despite the legal requirement, some employers fail to provide their domestic workers with the mandatory 24-hour rest period. This not only violates labour laws but strips these workers of a fundamental human right — time to rest and leisure. The importance of enforcing this right cannot be overstated, as it directly impacts those who dedicate their lives to helping the functioning of households in Hong Kong. 

Ensuring that all domestic workers receive their rightful rest day is not just about complying with the law — it is about affirming their humanity and recognising their invaluable contribution to Hong Kong’s households, economy, and culture. These women are not just workers; they are the backbone of countless families, and honouring and respecting their rights empowers them to continue shaping the future of Hong Kong. It is time for us all to realise this and take a stand.