Editorial | Domestic helpers deserve praise for heroism in Tai Po fire

Hong Kong’s domestic helpers should get equal attention for their recent heroism and daily efforts that help hold the community together

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People gathered on November 30 to pay tribute to the victims of the Wang Fuk Court fire. More than 200 foreign workers were employed and living with families in the housing estate before it became an inferno on November 26. Photo: Karma Lo

Published: 6:45am, 4 Dec 2025

The integral role of domestic helpers in Hong Kong society has been cast in sharp focus by the heroism and sacrifice displayed by foreign workers caught up in the city’s deadliest fire in decades. Their contributions should be honoured by ensuring they receive the same care and attention as other victims of the tragedy.

More than 200 foreign workers were employed and living with families in Tai Po’s Wang Fuk Court before the housing complex became an inferno on November 26. Of the at least 159 people killed in the fire, nine were identified as helpers from Indonesia and one from the Philippines. Thirty helpers are still missing.

The Post has reported extensively on the courage and sacrifice of workers such as Rhodora Alcaraz, who ended up in hospital intensive care. The 28-year-old was hailed as a hero for protecting a three-month-old baby and an elderly woman until firefighters found them.

Another helper carried her employers’ three-year-old daughter down a smoke-filled stairwell to escape. Reinalyn Niere said later she was in anguish about not being able to persuade a neighbour who perished in the blaze to also try to escape.

Some who did not make it out alive showed extraordinary bravery. DNA tests were needed to confirm the death of helper Sri Wahyuni, whose remains were found alongside those of an elderly woman from the family she worked for.

Another helper, Erawati, was last seen alive in a video call to her husband and young son in Indonesia. The 39-year-old was cradling a baby and caring for an elderly woman as smoke filled the flat.

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