A domestic worker in Singapore received a multi-million-dollar inheritance consisting of sekitar 6 juta dollar Singapura, equivalent to about Rp 40 miliar, along with a luxury apartment near Orchard Road after serving her employer for more than two decades, according to reports published by The Straits Times on July 21, 2010. Additional reporting from Tempo cited a figure of hampir £ 3 juta or approximately Rp 41 miliar for the bequest left by the late Dr. Quek Kai Miew, who passed away in 2009 at the age of 66.
Life and Service of Domestic Worker Christine
The 47-year-old worker, who identified herself only by the pseudonym Christine, spent over 20 years working for Dr. Quek, a doctor and philanthropist, according to The Straits Times and Tempo. Describing their bond to The Straits Times, Christine stated that they were inseparable and that she accompanied the doctor everywhere.
Financial Impact and Lifestyle Changes
Despite the substantial financial windfall, Christine maintained that the money did not alter her outlook or daily habits. According to statements given to The Straits Times and cited by Tempo, she remarked that she was the luckiest domestic worker in Singapore regardless of the funds. She continued to live without focusing on the wealth, dressing simply in a blouse, trousers, and short hair while maintaining her routine, as detailed by Tempo.
Security Concerns and Residency Status in Singapore
Christine chose to withhold her full identity due to security risks. According to Tempo’s reporting, she expressed concern that criminals in the Philippines could target her family for ransom or subject her to kidnapping if she returned. To mitigate these risks, she applied for permanent residency in Singapore, where Sekitar 200 ribu foreign domestic workers primarily from the Philippines and Indonesia are employed.
Did you know?
According to Tempo, foreign domestic workers make up a workforce of Sekitar 200 ribu individuals in Singapore, with the majority originating from the Philippines and Indonesia.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much was Christine’s inheritance?
According to The Straits Times, the inheritance was valued at approximately sekitar 6 juta dollar Singapura (about Rp 40 miliar), while Tempo reported the amount as nearly hampir £ 3 juta (about Rp 41 miliar), which included cash and a luxury apartment near Orchard Road.

Who was Christine’s employer?
Dr. Quek Kai Miew, a Singaporean doctor and philanthropist who passed away in 2009 at age 66, was Christine’s employer for over two decades, as reported by The Straits Times and Tempo.
Why did Christine conceal her full identity?
According to Tempo, Christine avoided revealing her identity to protect her family in the Philippines from extortion attempts or potential kidnapping risks, prompting her to apply for permanent residency in Singapore.