‘A dream come true’: thousands of helpers get free Disneyland trip as thanks

AdvertisementHong Kong societyHong KongSociety‘A dream come true’: helpers flock to Disneyland for free trip given as thanksPark and Li Ka Shing Foundation hand out 5,000 tickets to workers from Philippines, Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Thailand 2-MIN READ2-MIN ListenAmbrose LiPublished: 1:14pm, 12 Apr 2026Updated: 1:15pm, 12 Apr 2026Hundreds of domestic workers donning Minnie Mouse headdresses flocked to Hong Kong Disneyland Resort on Sunday 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. Novita Herdiana (centre) and friends take a picture at the park’s entrance of Hong Kong Disneyland. Photo: Eugene LeeIndonesian 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. Advertisement“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. Advertisement“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.” AdvertisementSelect VoiceSelect Speed0.8x0.9x1.0x1.1x1.2x1.5x1.75x00:0000:001.00x