SINGAPORE - Sheng Nu, which literally means "leftover, unwanted women" in Chinese, is a dreaded term among the single 30-somethings of the fairer sex.

While it might be derogatory to many, Hong Kong television actress Kate Tsui embraces it readily, even identifying herself as one in a heartbeat.

"I'm definitely a sheng nu," the gorgeous 34-year-old told local reporters yesterday afternoon at Resorts World Sentosa, while in town to judge the world finals of the 2013 TVB8 International Chinese Kung Fu Championship.

"But it's okay, I don't mind it at all, it's just a label that society slaps on us."

"Women have the right to make demands and choose their own path towards happiness. Don't be fooled by my easy-going appearance, I'm actually quite conservative at heart.

"I treat romance very seriously, I don't date for fun. So yeah, I'm still waiting for my Mr Right."

This might explain why Tsui, one of TVB's leading stars and the winner of the Miss Hong Kong Pageant in 2004, is still single while most showbiz peers around her age are either married or attached.

Fellow TVB actress Aimee Chan, 32, married actor Moses Chan last month in Paris. She is reportedly four months pregnant.

"I'm really envious of Aimee. She and Moses are so blissful together," Tsui said.

"I do want babies of my own, so for that sole reason, I know I can't put off (dating) for too long.

"If I manage to find a husband, I figure I'd just retire from entertainment and stay home to look after my family."

Before that happens, fans of the affable star - whose previous rumoured partners include actors Ron Ng and Bosco Wong, and divorced Cantopop star and actor Leon Lai - can expect their idol's reel life to mirror real life.

Tsui plays an independent, loveless corporate high-flier in My Prime Lady, a new 20-parter romantic comedy that explores the lives of single women in Hong Kong.

Her character eventually falls in love with her arch rival at work, played by veteran comedian Dayo Wong, 52.

According to Hong Kong news reports, in a particular scene, the pair even shared a passionate 30-second kiss on the mouth.

Tsui chuckled when asked her if she'd fall for someone like Wong (read: slightly goofy looking but with lots of wit, talent and humour).

"Totally! I don't go for handsome guys. They don't give me a sense of security at all," she said.

"I like practical, responsible men who make me feel comfortable. Usually I'd give them at least two dates.

"But if it's a suave dude with a 'dangerous' vibe, one date is it for me."

Read the full story here.

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» No to being a kept woman: Kate Tsui