Migrant workers get a raw deal

One in five South Asian workers receive less than the legal minimum wage of HK$28 per hour. Yet they keep quiet for fear of losing their jobs, a new survey says.

The Hong Kong Catholic Commission for Labour Affairs interviewed 238 South Asians - mostly Pakistanis and Indians - from March to June.

Study leader Law Pui-shan said the workers were unwilling to fight for their rights because they were dependent on their friends to find jobs.

Law said some foreign workers believe they had less bargaining power because they do not speak Cantonese or English and are also poorly educated.

The organisation hopes the government will raise the minimum wage to HK$33 and introduce standard working hours.