Lenn, you've made a keen observation. This is not taking place in the U.S. of A, North America or Europe. Cathay's home is CHINA. The normal rules regarding employee/employer relations don't apply in Hong Kong.
If you are a businessman setting up shop, it's your kind of place. The labour laws are built for the Employer. If you are a salaried worker looking to get ahead, the rules are stacked against you.
Toto, you ain't in Kansas anymore...
That's why it's imperative that the AOA win this fight.
TTYL