I guess that there is always a first time for anything. But....in over 30 years of working and traveling around the world, predominintly in Asia, I have never had my hotel room safe tampered with.
Who is to say that the charming reception staff in charge of their safe are any less devious than the housekeeping staff.
I am confident that my passport, license, credit cards, gold chain and extra cash are secure in my room safe whilst I venture out with 1 ATM card and guestimate amount of cash for an evenings entertainment.