Domestic helpers push for an end to live-in rule
Maids say living with their employers exposes them to the risk of assault and harassment
A group of foreign domestic helpers want a requirement for them to live with their employers to be scrapped.
The Hong Kong Federation of Asian Domestic Workers' Union says the rule exposes maids to the risk of indecent assault or sexual harassment by their employers.
They voiced their concerns yesterday with a rally outside the HSBC headquarters in Central, at which domestic helpers recounted recent ordeals they have had while living with their employers in the city.
One Indonesian maid at the demonstration described feeling vulnerable one night when her boss came into her room.
"My boss entered my room and touched my hand while talking to me. I was so scared and cried for help. He then left my room. I was so scared but I dared not tell others. I quit the job the following day," she said.
A Nepali woman said domestic helpers can find themselves in uncomfortable situations, but they often feel powerless to act.
"A friend told me that her boss liked to watch porn films while she was working at home. She felt very embarrassed and scared but did not complain, for fear she would lose the job," she said.