HONG KONG: Hundreds of domestic workers donning Minnie Mouse headdresses flocked to Hong Kong Disneyland Resort on Sunday (April 12) morning after receiving free tickets, with many helpers arriving at least an hour before the theme park opened.
The park and the Li Ka Shing Foundation handed out 5,000 tickets for two select days to thank Hong Kong’s migrant workers, with recipients coming from the Philippines, Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Thailand.
Crowds of ticket holders and their friends arrived at Disneyland at 9.15am, with many holding banners and taking pictures next to the park sign and Mickey Mouse fountain before heading inside.
Indonesian domestic helper Novita Herdiana dressed up in an outfit inspired by her favourite character, Maleficent, for her visit. She said she had been a fan of Disney’s animations since her childhood, particularly their colourful villains.
“It’s like a dream come true. It’s a big moment [for me because it’s] my first time here in my nine years in Hong Kong,” the 36-year-old said.
She said she arrived about an hour before the 10.30am opening to queue up with her friends.
“I woke up early normally anyway because I look after an elderly man, so I took care of him this morning before I came,” she said. “I want to take a lot of pictures and videos, try different rides and watch the parade.
“I’m staying until the end for the fireworks. I will not waste the chance.”
This year’s iteration of the charitable programme allowed helpers to visit the park for free on March 29 and this Sunday.
Under the scheme, helpers receive a one-day admission ticket that comes with two complimentary meals and a snack, and an Octopus card for transport, with the whole package valued at more than HK$1,000 (US$128).
Filipino domestic helper Sheery Ann, 48, who came with friend Gloria Paleracio, 51, said it was a pleasant surprise that they could come as Ann only received her notification about the free visit on Saturday.
“I have been to Disneyland before, but I am coming back because I love the parade,” said Ann, who has worked in Hong Kong for 26 years.
“I’m going to send some photos to my brother, who works in Tokyo and visited the Disneyland there last week!”
First-time visitor Paleracio told the South China Morning Post that she was excited about the trip and wanted to try anything that interested her, including visiting the Frozen area with her friend, but would refrain from scary rides.
Indonesian domestic worker Asri Lestari, who has worked in Hong Kong for three years but had yet to visit Disneyland before Sunday, said that she was “very excited for her visit, especially when it does not cost her anything”.
“I prefer rides over performances. I will stay as long as I’m not tired or until the park closes,” the 30-year-old said, adding that the process for securing tickets had been smooth. - South China Morning Post/ANN
