The Li Ka Shing Foundation announced a significant expansion of its philanthropic initiative, offering 5,000 complimentary admission tickets to Hong Kong Disneyland for foreign domestic workers (FDWs). Following a successful pilot program, the foundation revealed on February 10 that this year’s giveaway—scheduled for select dates in March and April—will broaden eligibility to include nationals from several Asian countries beyond the initial Filipino cohort, underscoring a wider societal acknowledgment of FDWs’ critical role in maintaining Hong Kong’s household and economic stability.
Acknowledging Societal Contribution
Foreign domestic workers are widely recognized as indispensable to the operational fabric of modern Hong Kong, enabling citizens to focus on professional endeavors by managing demanding household responsibilities. In recognition of this foundational contribution, philanthropic organizations are increasingly developing targeted programs to express gratitude.
This year’s initiative by the Li Ka Shing Foundation builds upon a prior engagement, increasing the number of free Disneyland tickets distributed from 4,000 to 5,000. The campaign is designed as an all-inclusive recreational package, ensuring recipients can enjoy a cost-free day out.
Enhanced Inclusivity and Benefits
A notable change for the 2026 program is the significant expansion of eligibility. While the inaugural giveaway focused exclusively on Filipino domestic workers, this iteration will extend invitations to FDWs who are nationals of Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Thailand. This move reflects a more comprehensive appreciation for the diverse community of helpers residing in the city.
The complementary package is exceptionally generous and designed to remove financial barriers related to transportation and in-park spending, ensuring a genuine leisure opportunity. Each recipient will receive:
- One admission ticket to Hong Kong Disneyland, valid for use on either March 29 or April 12.
- A pre-loaded Octopus card to cover round-trip transportation costs to the park.
- Vouchers covering two full meals and one snack inside the theme park.
This comprehensive approach transforms the giveaway into a true gesture of rest and gratitude, providing recipients with necessary funds and resources for a full day of enjoyment.
Collaboration Ensures Wide Distribution
To guarantee equitable and effective distribution of the tickets across Hong Kong’s diverse FDW population, the Li Ka Shing Foundation has strategically partnered with three local non-government organizations (NGOs) that specialize in supporting migrant workers.
Foreign domestic workers who meet the national eligibility requirements and wish to apply for the free tickets must approach one of the following partner organizations for registration:
- Indonesian Migrant Workers Union
- Bethune House
- Christian Action
These partner NGOs play a crucial role in outreach, ensuring that the tickets reach those who might otherwise lack the resources or opportunity for such a recreational trip.
The initiative highlights a growing trend among local institutions to formally acknowledge and materially support the foreign domestic workforce. Providing opportunities for leisure and appreciation is seen not only as a charitable act but as an investment in the well-being of a segment of the population critical to Hong Kong’s enduring status as a global urban center.
