This was not only Erwiana’s day in court. This was also for her friends and supporters.

Mainly from Indonesia and Philippines, they filled the public gallery and sat on the floor, sharing the cramped space with a throng of international journalists.

When the sentence was announced there was no cheering, no shouts. Instead, a respectful silence prevailed. There was a feeling that on this day, in a city which so often treats them as not deserving, justice had been achieved.

What is more, District Judge Amanda Woodcock final remarks identified that abuse cases like Erwiana’s might be avoided in the future with greater legislative protection - giving further hope to Hong Kong's migrant workers.

Erwiana’s day in court might be the catalyst for much greater change.