To escape her fate in China, Swee Leng, together with her friends who were in the same plight as her, sail across oceans to find hope and livelihood in Nanyang. Upon their arrival, the women manage to earn their keep as helpers to the men at construction sites, eventually making a name for themselves as Samsui women.
However, in the process, their solidarity and friendship are threatened by the repeated taunts from people around them as well as conflicts between Swee Leng and her friends. Friends become foes and family turn to enemies.
It was not until a fire that broke out in Bukit Ho Swee that finally brought them back together again. Working as one, they race against the clock to build new homes for the thousands who were left without shelters over their heads.
