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Youth
HONG KONG
Looking
Forward
OVERVIEW
4 Hong Kong after 1997
Contents
June 2017 | Youth Hong Kong
Volume 9 Number 2
INTERVIEWS
6 Engaging young people
Mrs Carrie Lam Chief Executive-elect
10 Knowing more about China
Mr Lau Ming-wai Commission on Youth
PERSPECTIVES
12 The economy: 4-5 6-11
Greater Bay area and beyond Titus Lo
14 Hopes and expectations Youth IDEAS OVERVIEW INTERVIEWS
16 Learning from the past Carew Chan
18 Strengthening multiculturalism
Stephanie Hung
20 Enforcing gender equality Bonnie Chiu
22
24
Needing to trust Alex Pang
Medical technology and the human touch
12-35 36-37
Benjamin Lui
26 Public transport:
PERSPECTIVES TALKING POINT
congestion or the hyperloop? Max Ng
28 Taking climate change seriously
Hazel Wong
30 Dealing with waste Gary Lee
32 Becoming part of you Samuel Lau
34 Trying to move forward Poppy Tam 38-41
TALKING POINT YOUTH WATCH
36 The Rule of Law Ho But-lam
YOUTH WATCH
38 Youth policy Jennifer Lam
HKFYG 42-51
42 Youth IDEAS Surveys
45 Summer Youth Programme HKFYG
46 Concert of 10,000 Voices
48 Mosaic cocreation: China Week
50 Leaders to Leaders Summer 2017
51 Belt and Road: multimedia resource kits
YOUTH HONG KONG published quarterly REPRODUCTION OF CONTENTS Ho But-lam Pak Fuk Road, North Point, Hong Kong
by The Hong Kong Federation without written permission from Virginia Addison TEL 3755 7084, 3755 7108
of Youth Groups the publisher is prohibited HKFYG Youth Research Centre FAX 3755 7155
EDITORIAL BOARD OVERVIEW TRANSLATION EMAIL youthhongkong@hkfyg.org.hk
Rosanna Wong Lakshmi Jacot Ada Chau & Angela Ngai ADVERTISING enquiries to
Elaine Morgan (Editor) INTERVIEWS PHOTOGRAPHS Ada Chau 3755 7108
Ada Chau (Assistant Editor) Elaine Morgan Acknowledged as captioned, stock images, The Hong Kong Federation of Youth
William Chung Lakshmi Jacot public domain or by Elaine Morgan Groups was founded in 1960 and
Andy Ho Ada Chau TRADEMARKS All brand names and is the citys largest non-profit youth
Lakshmi Jacot OTHER CONTRIBUTORS product names are registered trademarks. organization. Its programmes and
Angela Ngai Titus Lo Youth Hong Kong is not associated with activities at over 60 locations have
Hon Advisers Carew Chan any product or vendor mentioned in articles. annual attendance of 5 million.
Henry Poon Stephanie Hung ARTWORK, DESIGN, CORE SERVICES Youth SPOTs, M21
Veronica Pearson Bonnie Chiu LAYOUT & PRINTING Multimedia Services, Employment Services,
CIRCULATION (unaudited) Alex Pang DG3 Youth at Risk Services, Counselling
11,000-12,000 in Hong Kong, Benjamin Lui ISSN 2071-3193 (Print) Services, Parenting Services, Leadership
throughout the region and overseas Max Ng ISSN 2519-1098 (Online) Training, Volunteer Services, Education
VIEWS EXPRESSED are the authors Hazel Wong WEB youthhongkong.hkfyg.org.hk Services, Creativity Education and Youth
and interviewees may come from official Gary Lee CORRESPONDENCE to The Editor, Exchange, Leisure, Cultural and Sports
sources, and do not necessarily reflect the Samuel Lau Youth Hong Kong, 21/F, The Hong Kong Services, Research and Publications
views of the editorial board or publisher Poppy Tam Federation of Youth Groups Building, 21 WEB hkfyg.org.hk m21.hk
2
Editorial
June 2017|Youth Hong Kong
As the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region approaches its 20th Anniversary,
Youth Hong Kong takes this opportunity to hear from tomorrows leaders today.
Young people share their expectations and hopes for Hong Kongs progress,
writing from a range of perspectives about various concerns.
We are privileged to have the Chief Executive-elect share her vision on how to
positively engage young people for the future development of Hong Kong.
This is their future and these are their visions and dreams.
We hope that as a result of reading this issue you will appreciate the dynamism of
Hong Kongs youth. As always, we look forward to receiving your feedback.
3
Overview
June 2017 | Youth Hong Kong
Feelings of hope, excitement and anxiety all met on a rainy In the meantime, Hong Kong has dealt with real and
day in Hong Kong 20 years ago. It was the day the city increasing competition from mainland China and overseas.
became a Special Administrative Region of the Peoples As part of China, it feels the impact of competitive first-tier
Republic of China. All those emotions were completely mainland cities and widespread economic growth in China.
natural and inevitable given that the concept of One Nevertheless, Hong Kongs economy nearly doubled in size
Country, Two Systems was untried anywhere in the world. over the past two decades with GDP growing at an average
annual rate of 3.4%. Per capita GDP during the same period
What has happened since then has run the gamut of rose by more than 60% to HK$330,720 (US$42,400)
challenges and opportunities, many of which were similar representing average annual real-term growth of 2.5%.1
to those experienced by other major cities. Hong Kongs
unique position has at times exacerbated events, but on Inspite of its economic growth, one of the most serious
balance, this is a city that has continued to make progress. problems Hong Kong has witnessed is the continuously
widening wealth gap. According to one estimate, in just
Social, health and economic concerns four years, 2011-2015, the number of poor families rose
an alarming 6%. 19.6% of the citys population can now
Some of Hong Kongs biggest challenges actually drew be classified as poor.2 With low wages and rising costs,
people together, most evidently during the SARS upward mobility is extremely difficult, creating a vicious
outbreak of 2003. The city came to a virtual standstill: cycle of intergenerational poverty. The last 20 years have
quiet streets, closed schools and universities, tourists also seen rising property prices that put buying a home
absent and the economy in freefall. This health disaster out of the reach even for the middle class. This will have
saw 299 deaths and more than 1,700 people affected. long-term social repercussions as young people postpone
In response, people rallied round to help each other marriage and having children. Meanwhile, intergenerational
and the communitys resilience was second-to-none. tensions and frustrations with the government will grow.
Although other health crises including bird flu and swine
flu also took their toll, the public health system, often Probably one of the most important changes has been in
criticised for its long waiting lists, dealt with each crisis demographics.3 Like many other places, Hong Kong has an
in a manner that drew admiration around the world. ageing population and a low fertility rate. As the proportion
of those under 15 falls and the proportion of those over 65
Economic volatility has also affected the city and the rises, so the median age, which in 2016 already stood at 44,
Asian financial crisis of 1997 was probably the most continues to rise. Given that life expectancy is also expected
dramatic example, especially when the government to increase, critical social issues related to the elderly will
made the unprecedented move of intervening in the assume greater and greater importance in policy matters.
market. This was considered controversial because of
Hong Kongs reputation as a free market economy but In the workforce, unemployment and underemployment
it was a courageous move, emulated by many countries rates still remain stable despite growing concern about
ten years later when the global financial crisis hit. the mismatch between available jobs and required skills.
4
Demonstrations show the publics belief in a political system that allows
them to give vent to their opinions
by Andreas. flic.kr/p/4UmCBy
dominance of finance and business of Hong Kongs commitment to
in tertiary education needs to be the Rule of Law, its respect for
addressed as Hong Kong looks freedom of expression and the
to expand its economic base. right of assembly and procession.
Most importantly, what these
Political challenges demonstrations show is the publics belief in a political
system that allows them to give vent to their opinions
One cannot ignore the growing politicisation of Hong freely, even if they are at odds with the government.
Kong. This was reflected by the record turnout of 2.2
million voters for the 2016 Legislative Council election. Optimistic outlook
While wanting their voices to be heard, the public
have also had to get used to legislators filibustering Despite differing opinions about politics and the economic
tactics and to seeing anticipated new policies vetoed, and social challenges faced by the city, there is a genuine,
as was the case in the political reform package. firm commitment to the future and a strong wish for
progress and prosperity at all levels of society. With a high
Given that members of the public do not hesitate to express degree of autonomy, legally enshrined in the Basic Law,
their opinions on governance and the impact of policies, it is there still remains optimism for the future and many people
not surprising that Hong Kong has also grown accustomed feel a strong sense of belonging to Hong Kong.4 The city
to political demonstrations. The annual 1 July protest rally, is confident that it will continue to be an international
the major three-month sit-in of the Umbrella Movement hub, not only for business and financial services, but also
or Occupy Central, and many other pro- and anti- as a global leader in trade, aviation, shipping, logistics, the
government protests, large and small, all are manifestations arts and culture. Consistently ranked as the worlds freest
of growing political awareness in the community. economy, open to people from around the world, Hong
Kong will maintain its role as Asias World City.
There are few, if any, cities in the world today where
everyone agrees about politics. It is normal to have
divergent political positions and to disagree about how
policies must be implemented. Nevertheless, some analysts
by kuba! flic.kr/p/o4HAy3
5
Interview
June 2017 | Youth Hong Kong
6
Asked what her wishes were for the citys future, the Chief Getting to the root of the problem
Executive-elect said, Looking ahead, fundamentally
I want to ensure the continuing success of One While this might be a general phenomenon, Mrs
Country, Two Systems. That means upholding our Lam suggested that lack of hope for the future often
core values: the rule of law, the independence of the comes from lack of opportunities. Therefore it
judiciary, the freedoms that we enjoy. These principles becomes imperative to give young people more faith,
are crucial for maintaining Hong Kongs stability. both in Hong Kong and in the government, with
tangible opportunities to succeed and prosper.
In relation to young people specifically, Mrs Lam
talked about her days of campaigning. What I heard How her government plans to do this is by working on
from young people was their anxiety and despair, she clear policies to address specific areas that have a direct
said. Those feelings can be very damaging. Without impact on young people. These are housing, education
hope, life becomes very depressing. I need to get to and economic development, all of which, as she went
the root of the problem to understand better. on to explain, are interconnected. Look at property
prices and wages today. Buying a home has become
unaffordable, impossible for young people. Working out
During my election campaign, a policy that will allow them to own their own flat, not
by interacting directly with immediately, but in due course, is my foremost goal.
youth, I learned a lot about Education is so important, Mrs Lam said. Hong Kong
is a place without many natural resources and we have
how they felt. built our success on people. Now we need to improve
educational opportunities, invest more in talent and
produce the people to drive Hong Kongs economy.
7
Interview
June 2017 | Youth Hong Kong
very depressing. I need to get The second approach to youth engagement that Mrs Lam
would like to pursue is an increased youth membership of
to the root of the problem. government advisory boards and committees. There are
hundreds of these and we could invite or appoint more
Economic development: young people. A new self-nomination process could also
providing motivation for youth be established whereby vacancies were advertised and
those interested could put their names forward, involving
All this naturally depends on the assurance of secure a proactive response from young people themselves.
economic development. To grow the economy, not only do
we want to strengthen traditional sectors, including finance,
shipping, professional services and tourism, we also want Nothing can substitute for
to press ahead with emerging sectors. Specifically, these are
innovation and technology, as well as the creative industries. dialogue with a personal
These could, in the long term, provide motivation for
youth to play their own role in economic development,
touch.
given competencies in both sectors, Mrs Lam affirmed.
Third, Mrs Lam outlined a strategy to bring more
As an example, she would like to see young people with youth directly into government by giving them working
innovative ideas devising policy and applications for the experience in public policy and public affairs. I promise
delivery of medical care, biomedicine and biotechnology for to create 20 to 30 positions on non-civil service contracts
the elderly. Artificial intelligence (AI) is another field where for this purpose. Then we can work more side by side.
young people should be involved. I think we have a strong
edge in developing AI. I have seen very talented students in Together, what these three approaches offer to young
this area, with new ideas in automation and robotics. What people is actual and direct participation, which could go a
the government needs is to have a shared vision of growth long way to improve communication and understanding
in opportunities and investment so that young people on both sides. Underlying Mrs Lams vision of expanding
will see more clearly that this is where their future lies. youth opportunities, both in the workforce and in the
civic arena, is the creation of a youth development policy.
The central focus of Mrs Lams vision for young people
is their growing involvement in the public arena. Youth policy from new
Tapping their forces and resources, listening to and Youth Development Commission
engaging them are very important. She highlighted
three approaches which could facilitate the process of At present, youth development work within
engagement and offer a real, comprehensive way in various government departments may seem
which the concerns of young people could be heard compartmentalized. The Social Welfare Department,
while possible solutions were gleaned from them. Home Affairs Bureau and Education Bureau all run
different youth development programmes. What
Listening and interacting, we need is a well-articulated, overarching youth
engagement and direct participation development policy to bring them together.
First and foremost Mrs Lam stressed that young people A higher level Youth Development Commission, to grow
need more opportunities to interact with government out of the existing Commission on Youth, will draw up
officials and to gain a better understanding of public the policy, a visionary statement encapsulating hopes
policy. Indeed, I promise that I and the Principal and goals for Hong Kongs youth. Whatever policy the
8
for dialogue with a personal touch. Thats what works best.
During my election campaign, by interacting directly with
I want to give young people youth, I learned a lot about how they felt while they came to
understand a bit more about how the government works.
confidence in themselves and in
the government. To conclude, the Chief Executive-elect spoke heartfelt
words. My overall vision is to make sure that people
of all ages in Hong Kong have hope and can live
government develops it has to be acceptable by young happily in this city, that they will become more
people. The composition and structure of the Commission attached to it than ever and call it their home.
has not yet been decided but, tentatively, Mrs Lam says
the Chief Secretary for Administration will chair it and Especially for young people, her message is one of hope.
there is no reason why it cannot have youth members. I want to give them confidence in themselves and in the
government. To achieve this we must see them as a diverse
Stressing the need to take stock of the youth work done group with very different talents. We should not stereotype.
in all the various departments, Mrs Lam insists that Instead we should provide opportunities that allow youth to
youth policy must be discussed by and embraced by fulfill their potential, to confirm their sense of commitment
youth. We are not in a position to dictate to them. I and then in future give back to the community.
want to listen to them first. Only then will it be possible
to work out what policy we should have and how it can
be taken forward in a coordinated way in future.
In order to get a broad grasp of young peoples views, Mrs
Lam is convinced that face-to-face communication works
best although she agrees that the means of communication
that young people use themselves will also be adopted.
While confirming that her government will reach out
extensively on social media, she is committed to simply
sitting down together and talking. Nothing can substitute
9
Interview
June 2017|Youth Hong Kong
Knowing more
about China
F or Hong Kong youth's awareness and
understanding of mainland China to
be enhanced, they need first-hand
experience, says Mr Lau Ming-wai,
Chairman of the Commission on Youth.
*More details
coy.gov.hk/en/mainland_exchange/funding_scheme_17_18.html
10
One can be proud of ones Hong
Kong identity and culture, and
at the same time accept and
embrace mainland Chinese
identity and culture.
11
Perspectives
June 2017|Youth Hong Kong
Hong Kong has a unique business environment and The kind of stability that Hong Kong offers also reduces
several special advantages. Furthermore, I think the the chance of failure and supports both innovation and
12
It is very important to be able to
rely on Hong Kongs well-
established legal system and its
stable regulatory environment.
Sources
Professor Y.C. Richard Wong, The University of Hong Kong wangyujian.hku.hk/?p=8241&lang=en
1. hong-kong-economy-research.hktdc.com/business-news/article/Market-Environment/Economic-and-Trade-Information-on-Hong-Kong/etihk/en/1/1X000000/1X09OVUL.htm
* For a changing map of the evolution of the Greater Bay Area go to: scmp.com/infographics/article/2087678/evolution-greater-bay-area
13
Perspectives
June 2017|Youth Hong Kong
14
What priorities would you give the new Chief Executive?
What are the most important ways in which the new Chief Executive should communicate with youth?
48%
27%
23%
20% 18%
14%
11% 10% 9%
2% 1%
The Rule Freedom Anticorruption Justice Democracy High level Fairness Social Harmony Equality Others
of Law of integrity stability
15
Perspectives
June 2017 | Youth Hong Kong
16
Simmering tensions
Hongkongers blame mainland investors for pushing
up property prices and have in the past protested
against mainland women coming to Hong Kong to
give birth. Parallel traders who buy tax-free products
here and resell them for a profit across the border are
also a bone of contention. However, overall attitudes
may not be as negative as the media portrays them
to be, according to a survey last year at the Hong
Kong Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies at the Chinese
University of Hong Kong. About 60% of respondents
think that new immigrants place a strain on social welfare
programmes but nearly 50% think they should not be
isolated because we are all Chinese. Around a quarter
Both locals and immigrants developed a shared Hong Kong
oppose mainland immigration but slightly more say it is
identity, not only through solidarity and work but also
acceptable. About a third believe that new immigrants
through entertainment. Many film, TV and pop music stars can counter the ageing population and enhance the
were born in mainland China. Their memorable depictions citys competitiveness with a larger labour force.
of life in Hong Kong made them part of local culture.15 Source scmp.com/news/hong-kong/education-community/
As a result, there was no strong conflict between locals article/2045204/hong-kong-media-vilification-mainland-chinese
residents of mainland China to settle in Hong Kong 4. Census and Statistics Department. 1969. Hong Kong Statistics 1947-1967.
5. ibid
permanently. About 879,000 did so from 1997 to 6. had.gov.hk/en/public_services/services_for_new_arrivals_from_the_mainland/surveys.htm
2014.16 The quota of 150 new arrivals per day allows 7. Census and Statistics Department. (2012). 2011 Population Census Summary Results census2011.
gov.hk/pdf/summary-results.pdf
a hypothetical total of about 55,000 per annum 8. ssrc.hku.hk/files/reports/population/OWP_Report.pdf op.cit
although this quota was not always filled. Official 9. Wong, SL. 1988. Emigrant Entrepreneurs: Shanghai Industrialists in Hong Kong. Hong Kong: Oxford
University Press, 1988.
statistics17show that approximately 93% of population 10. Smart, A & Yin Peng. Management and settlement of new immigrants in Hong Kong. Journal of
growth between 1997 and 2001 can be attributed to Guangxi University for Nationalities. 2008 (2): 27-34. caod.oriprobe.com/articles/13955664/
Management_and_Settlement_of_New_Immigrants_in_Hong_Kong.htm
newly arrived mainland immigrants under the OWP. 11. 2003hkaco.org.hk/2003/12/31/10-
years-articles-03/
12. Fei, Michelle. The Great Exodus. China Daily. 20 April 2011.
Most immigrants are hard workers, but prejudice, 13. Wong, R & Wong, KF. The importance of migration to Hong Kongs future. Siu, Helen F & Ku, Agnes
discrimination and stigmatization of mainland immigrants S, eds. Hong Kong Mobile. HKU Press, 2008, pp90-116.
14. Chan, JMM. Immigration Policies and Human Resources Planning. Hong Kong Mobile. op cit
has become common. Why? According to modern 149-199.
Li, Ruojian. Population study of mainland immigrants in Hong Kong. Population & Economics. 1997
conflict theory,18 resentment is often created by an (2): 24-29.
unequal distribution of power and resources among 15. Ma, Eric Kit-wai and Tsang Chung-kin. TV, Film and Hong Kong Identity. Hong Kong: CUHK Press,
2010.
social groups and this theory is applicable in Hong Kong 16. Legislative Council House Committee. 2015. www.legco.gov.hk/yr14-15/chinese/hc/sub_com/hs51/
where recent arrivals from mainland China are seen as papers/hs5120151123cb2-292-2-c.pdf
17. Report of the Task Force on Population Policy, 2003. info.gov.hk/info/population/eng/pdf/report_eng.
outsiders. Locals who hold a protectionist view believe pdf
that the immigrants use resources to which they are not 18. Knapp, P. One World Many Worlds: Contemporary Sociological Theory. Harper Collins, College
Div, 2nd ed, 1994, 228246.
entitled, despite the newly acquired affluence of some.
Carew Chan is 24. She is one of the
Have we forgotten, or never known what it is like to deputy conveners of the HKFYG Youth
be a stranger? Is it no longer possible to feel sympathy? I.D.E.A.S. think tank. She is also Community
If we could remember or rediscover such feelings we Service Director of the Rotaract Club of
could begin to work towards unity and a better Hong Happy Valley and a member of the Board of
Management,Yin Wan Education Fund Ltd.
Kong, not just for the newcomers, but for all of us.
17
Perspectives
June 2017 | Youth Hong Kong
Strengthening
multiculturalism
S tephanie Hung looks at the foundations of Hong Kongs
multicultural society. She finds them well-established yet
in need of a legal review and says the city could offer more to
its diverse, immigrant people.
Its 20 years since the handover of Hong Kong and 20 Now, in 2017, 7.4 million people call Hong Kong
years since my brother and I moved here in 1997. My their home and there is a growing ethnic minority
Taiwanese mother brought us here to reunite with my population. Although most migrants come from
father who originally came from mainland China. He mainland China, there is also immigration from the
arrived many years earlier whereas my extended family Philippines and Indonesia, with a forecast influx
was scattered around the world. From then onwards, from Cambodia due to relaxed visa restrictions
throughout my schooldays with international classmates to meet the increasing demand for helpers. Other
and travelling overseas to visit my family, I learned to ethnic groups include Indians, Pakistanis, Nepalese,
appreciate the value of a truly multicultural society. Japanese, Thais, Koreans and westerners.
In 1997, Hong Kongs population was 6.4 million. Raymond Tam as Secretary for Constitutional and
Many members of the emerging middle class emigrated Mainland Affairs in 2012 said that Hong Kong is
overseas as the handover approached. Even so, the a multicultural, international city and a harmonious
population continued to grow, with mainland China as community with heterogenous diversity. Local residents
the primary source of new immigrants. Nevertheless, and incoming visitors may have diverse cultural
by 2016 a report from local think tank, Our Hong backgrounds, ways of living and social systems [but]
Kong Foundation, urged a review of immigration it is our common hope that all people can live together
policies and an intensification of efforts to attract in harmony, with diversity and inclusiveness under the
skilled immigrants, especially from mainland China.1 common values of mutual understanding and respect.3
Like New York and London, Hong Kong is a melting This sounds quite promising, but five years later, nothing
pot and so multiculturalism needs to be understood and has changed to promote and protect multiculturalism
dealt with carefully. We are a city of immigrants, says in Hong Kong, although other forms of protection
broadcaster and investment manager, Richard Harris. Just are provided by Hong Kong legislation. These include
a few thousand are true descendants of indigenous Hong the right to equality and non-discrimination under
Kong farmers and fishermen though about another million Hong Kongs Basic Law, the Bill of Rights Ordinance
claim that right. The rest of us are economic migrants.2 (Cap.383), the Sex Discrimination Ordinance (Cap.480)
However, as Harris also pointed out, Immigration schemes and the Race Discrimination Ordinance (Cap.602).
must be designed to provide wealth, wisdom or work
for our economic growth will be stimulated both by Unlike Canada and the US, Hong Kong has no specific
professionals in their early twenties and foreign domestic policy on multiculturalism. Therefore, immigrants
helpers permitted to do a wider range of low-paid jobs. face the usual difficulties of resettlement, access
18
ethnic minority rights among all government officials and
NGO personnel, with training in human rights and cultural
sensitivity. Enhanced visibility and leadership among
ethnic minorities to cultivate both inclusive citizenship
and a sense of Hong Kong identity is also recommended.
Source had.gov.hk/rru/english/info/info_dem.html
Stephanie Hung
to the labour market, language etc. They also face 4 is a newly qualified
barrister and
prejudice and challenges such as mastering spoken regular contributor.
Cantonese as well as written Chinese, which affect
entry to universities in Hong Kong that require Sources
both English and Chinese as entry level subjects. 1. Our Hong Kong Foundation, Riding on Mainlands Economic Development in a New Era. 28
October 2016. ourhkfoundation.org.hk/sites/default/files/media/pdf/ChinaHK_Report_
English_28.10.16.pdf
2. Harris, Richard, Hong Kongs immigration policy: a help or hindrance to business? South China
In her research on the subject at the University of Hong Morning Post, 16th February 2017. scmp.com/business/china-business/article/2071350/
hong-kongs-immigration-policy-help-or-hindrance-business
Kong,5 Associate Professor Puja Kapai recommends 3. LCQ14: Government respects and safeguards the freedom of speech and academic freedom. 15
evidence-based policy-making. She calls for the review and February 2012. info.gov.hk/gia/general/201202/15/P201202150267.htm
4. Kennedy, Kerry J. Immigration and Hong Kong: New Immigrants and ethnic minorities. 2012. ied.
immediate reform of existing laws protecting the rights of edu.hk/diversityproject/Outputs%20and%20downloads/Doc/Immigration%20and%20Hong%20
ethnic minorities and the Race Discrimination Ordinance Kong.pdf
5. Kapai, Puja, Status of ethnic minorities in Hong Kong 1997-2014, 2015. law.hku.hk/ccpl/
in particular. She also recommends raising the awareness of StatusofEthnicMinorities/A.CoverPage.pdf
19
Perspectives
June 2017 | Youth Hong Kong
The first time I ever thought about gender inequality In the past twenty years, a more hopeful picture for
was when my female relatives said they had to give up gender equality in Hong Kong has emerged with the
their education for the sake of the family. Girls were female labour force participation rate steadily increasing
expected to work in the factories and then get married. from 48% to 53% in 2017, when Carrie Lam will
become Hong Kongs First female Chief Executive.
Why should boys be given different opportunities
from girls, simply on account of their gender? I But the urgent need to increase female representation
did not understand and that is why I have focused in Hong Kong politics has not disappeared. According
on advancing gender equality in my career. to the Womens Foundation,2 the current Legislative
Council has only 12 women, equivalent to 17.1%
In Hong Kong, Chinese womens subordination stems of its members. This trails well behind many other
from Confucianism which has always emphasized womens advanced societies. Carrie Lam has said, To the
familial responsibilities. The saying goes, Women take women of Hong Kong, I hope I will lead by example
care of the household affairs. The foundation of all to encourage more women to take part in politics. 3
Confucian ethics is piety and such responsibilities are not
limited to childcare but also involve care for the elderly. Meanwhile, the glass ceiling remains. A report on women
sitting on Hong Kong boards in 2015 showed the ratio
It is therefore not surprising that, historically, Hong Kong of women in directorships had risen, but only slightly, to
has had a rather low female labour force participation rate. 11.1%.4 In general, female workers face a growing gender
World Bank statistics1 show that in 1997, the female labour pay gap and in 2015 they were paid on average HK$2,500
force participation rate was only 48% fewer than half per month less than men for the same work, despite the
of the female population aged 15 and above were active governments pledge to work towards equality.5 For those
in the labour market. My mother was one of the 48% living below the poverty line the gap has also widened in
she managed to build her career while my grandmother the past 15 years, with women on average earningonly
helped to fulfil most of the care responsibilities. 60% what mendo according to an Oxfam report.6
20
Wage worries
Monthly median income in poor households*(HK$) Female
#
2015 2nd Quarter
Percentage of those who work fewer than 17 hours a week
21
Perspectives
June 2017|Youth Hong Kong
Needing
to trust
I n this frank and personal view, 26-year-
old Alex Pang asks what the incoming
government can do to increase young people's
hope for the future.
Of course, there are exceptions. Jasper Tsang Yok-sing, It would help to increase transparency and optimism if
the former President of the Legislative Council, has we saw more opportunities. In the economy, the focus is
political wisdom and understands the situation. He also always on the finance sector and property development.
seems willing to understand and communicate with This is too narrow and not healthy for society as a whole.
people who hold views different from his own. That Singapore, on the other hand, has very good high-end
is so important if you are hoping to reach a mutually manufacturing, with the focus on innovation in science,
acceptable outcome and it is crucial if you want to medicine and engineering which seems more balanced.
rebuild trust. Otherwise there will be a stalemate.
However, I always wonder whether the government really
In my opinion, only very few Hong Kong people are wants to listen to public opinion. Public consultations are
really asking for Hong Kong independence. Generally, poorly promoted and many people are unaware that they
people just focus on earning enough to cover the high cost are taking place. Members of the public often feel that the
of living. They feel they have no choice and many find government does not really care what they think anyway.
life very difficult and stressful. Of course, all this affects Instead, when policy decisions emerge they seem to reflect
children as well. They face huge pressure at school because a foregone conclusion reached by a government bureau.
22
hope for the future. At present,
many people here have lost the trust
they once had in the government.
Once lost, it is very hard to rebuild.
23
Perspectives
June 2017 | Youth Hong Kong
Medical technology
and the human touch
E xperts point to the potential of Hong Kongs world-class universities for the development
of robotics. However, while recognizing this and observing surgical robots at work,
medical intern Benjamin Lui says that the human touch of doctors is irreplaceable.
Imagine a sci-fi horror scene: an innocent man, tied to As a medical student observing the use of surgical robots
a table, screaming desperately while knives held by cold, via live broadcasts in the operating theatre, I appreciate
lifeless robots are approaching him from above. the fineness of the procedures. The surgeon uses his or
her hands and feet on joysticks and pedals almost like a
Believe it or not, such robots could be doing their job video game player at first glance. Nevertheless, to navigate
in a Hong Kong surgical theatre right now. Surgical tools deep inside a human body through a robotic arm,
robotics are an essential part of state-of-the-art surgery. the doctor needs excellent hand-foot coordination that
But in reality, our patient would be anaesthetized and the takes hours and hours of practice on models to perfect.
robots would be controlled by a skilled surgeon nearby.
However, this is not cutting-edge medical robotics. That
While our own hands are an incredible natural is in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI) and IBM
gift, robotic hands and arms allow more precise Watson Health offers such services. Like the fictional
movements and can eliminate much of the Doctor Watson, IBM Watson is a detective. Its strengths
shakiness of natural hands, going deep into spaces are in data organization and analysis and it can build
unreachable by real hands and able to remove so a complete picture from concrete information such as
many cancers previously deemed inoperable. investigation results as well as data on general health status.
24
Medical students and junior doctors such as me often One question naturally follows. If these robot doctors
struggle to derive patient management plans from such a are so good, will they replace human doctors? To
wealth of information, yet comprehensive management me, the answer is obvious. A fundamental element
plans should consider all factors related to each patient in of clinical medicine is human-to-human interaction.
order to provide clear directions for holistic, feasible and Despite the occasional shameful compromises taken in
individualized treatment. For this, IBM Watsons speed and routine medical practice due to various limitations, we
accurate analysis makes it an ideal partner for real doctors. should never give up communicating with patients.
Another example comes from DeepMind the institution Clinical communication, especially breaking bad news,
behind AlphaGo, the AI machine that mastered the is a delicate art. It is unacceptable to give a diagnosis
ancient art of Go. The company has invested heavily in of cancer on the phone or by email. I can imagine how
healthcare technology and has already implemented pilot puzzled and emotional I would feel to be diagnosed
research programmes in radiation treatment planning with a terminal disease in such a way. Instead, one wants
at the National Health Service (NHS) in Britain. the support of another human being, a compassionate
Radiotherapy planning requires a fine balance between doctor with whom ideas and concerns can be shared.
controlling the cancer as far as possible while protecting
nearby vital organs. This process involves many complex Even cutting-edge robotics cannot achieve this
calculations and compromises. AI with machine learning humane touch, although I have no doubt that AI will
fits this task nicely, greatly accelerating the process. eventually surpass humans in many aspects of clinical
medicine. AI may have a transitional role, saving us
Coming back to Hong Kong, we have a medical system the time and effort needed for analysis, interpretation
historically related to the NHS, and facing similar of investigation results and writing up reports.
challenges with an ageing population and a shortage of However, as long as human beings are the patients,
resources. If the pilot programmes in Britain turn out to I believe that human doctors will be irreplaceable.
be successful and economical, our services may also be
enhanced, potentially releasing manpower from tedious data
analysis for other clinical duties, reducing waiting time for Further reading
patients and increasing the time available for consultations. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1356187/
medscape.com/viewarticle/875299
sabcs.org/Portals/SABCS2016/Documents/
SABCS-2016-Abstracts.pdf?v=1
ibm.com/watson/health/oncology-and-genomics/oncology/
ibm.com/watson/health/value-based-
care/watson-care-manager/
deepmind.com/applied/deepmind-health/research/
25
Perspectives
June 2017|Youth Hong Kong
Public transport
Congestion or hyperloop?
M ax Ng writes about the impact of Hong Kongs railways and roads on
commuters and offers his view on the way forward.
Dont block other passengers,put your backpack Meanwhile, some bus routes have been cut with the opening
down. Does this slogan ring a bell? Its what I of new railway lines. Road congestion has become part of
have to do every morning to squeeze onto the daily life and there are about 350 licensed vehicles5 for every
already fully-packed East Rail train in Tai Wai. kilometre of road. That includes too many private cars.6
26
slower, are still popular. But railways do offer economies system of zero-fare escalators and moving pavements.
of scale and have a quarter of the carbon footprint of The Mid-Levels escalator, while not unique, is the longest
buses while transporting the same number or more outdoor covered escalator system in the world and was
passengers.9 Moreover, building new roads would only a pioneer in its day. More would be good. On the other
attract even more cars. As traffic engineers say, Trying hand, Denmark has been promoting cycling since the
to cure traffic congestion by adding more capacity is 1970s and streets in mainland cities are flooded with
like trying to cure obesity by loosening your belt. public, shared bikes costing as little as RMB1 per hour.
Carpooling is widespread in mainland China and Europe,
What about costs? New railways involve heavy investment while individual-occupant, self-driving electric cars are
such as constructing tunnels in densely populated areas. on the horizon and prototype
Nevertheless, building new roads is also very costly. autonomous flying cars
The Central-Wan Chai Bypass, for example, are being trialed. So whats
is expected to cost more than going to happen next here?
HK$36 billion, paid
by taxpayers in Technological breakthroughs move constantly
general, not beyond imagination. Maybe the futuristic
just road Hyperloop will redefine commuting. This concept
users. propels a pod-like vehicle through a reduced-pressure
tube. In January this year, MIT demonstrated the first ever
There Hyperloop run in the world. Maybe commuting will simply
is no easy disappear and we will all comfortably stay at home and be
answer to the able to do anything anywhere. But until that day comes,
question of cost- we will probably still need to struggle to get on the train.
effectiveness. Hong Kong
is expected to have more than Not all new forms of transport will be useful in our vertically
8 million people within 15 years10 integrated city, but disruptive innovation like that of Uber
and while I believe we should still put shows that instead of sitting on the fence, Hong Kong
railways first, we need more efficient point-to- should get involved, adapt and find its own homegrown
point bus routes in synergy with railways. We also solutions, not least better sidewalks for pedestrians and
need congestion charging on busy roads. It just might more flexible work schedules so that rush hours are eased.
avoid the tragedy of the commons. the economic theory of
Max Ng is a graduate civil engineer
a situation where individuals act independently according with a particular interest in transport
to self-interest, contrary to the common good of all users. infrastructure and policy. He was awarded
the HKFYG Innovation and Technology
Scholarship in 2013 and then studied at
However, none of these will change the fundamental the University of Manchester after local
problem: a tidal wave of commuters every morning. New government internships in Hong Kong. His
railway and highway links are coming, according to the mentor for the scholarship was Mr Wai
governments HK2030+ plan, but what we really need is Chi-sing who was the Permanent Secretary
for Development (Works) at the time.
innovation. Central and Western district has an extensive
Sources
1. td.gov.hk/en/transport_in_hong_kong/public_transport/introduction/index.html
2. mtr.com.hk/en/corporate/investor/patronage.php
3. scmp.com/news/hong-kong/economy/article/2023292/hong-kong-slipped-two-spots-no-9-competitiveness-index-world
4. Paper submitted to Legislative Council Panel. LC Paper No. CB(4)854/15-16(07). MTR Corporation Ltd. April 2016.
5. td.gov.hk/en/transport_in_hong_kong/public_transport/introduction/index.html
6. thb.gov.hk/eng/boards/transport/land/Full_Eng_C_cover.pdf
7. Electronic Road Pricing Pilot Scheme in Central and its Adjacent Areas Public Engagement Document Transport and Housing Bureau. December 2015.
8. Government Panel on Transport Public Engagement for Electronic Road Pricing Pilot Scheme in Central. Transport and Housing Bureau. 30 June 2016. legco.gov.hk/yr15-16/english/panels/tp/papers/
tp20151216cb4-1210-1-e.pdf
9. Carbon Footprint Management Toolkit for Sustainable Low-Carbon Living - School of Energy and Environment City University of Hong Kong. Jun3 2013. foe.org.hk/GOC/eng/menu/Action%20Manual_Energy.pdf
10. Hong Kong Population Projections 2015-2064. Census & Statistics Dept. censtatd.gov.hk/fd.jsp?file=B71510FA2015XXXXB0100.pdf&product_id=FA100061&lang=1
27
Perspectives
June 2017|Youth Hong Kong
What is the moral behind the tale of the frog in the pot lacking. The second attitude is pessimism. There may be
of hot water? It didnt survive because it failed to see keen awareness, as among my university classmates, but
what was coming. To make the analogy more accurate, they think their individual ability to contribute to affect
imagine the water temperature in the pot constantly climate change is minimal. So again they do nothing.
fluctuating. Sometimes it boils, almost cooking the frogs The slow, negative impact of climate change is like the
to death. Then it turns to ice and the frogs freeze with slow boil of the pot with the frog on the stove. Like the
it. Sometimes it evaporates and the frog nearly dies of frog, we need to get moving fast to save ourselves.
thirst, but then it overflows and the frog drowns.
Once I belonged to the pessimistic group but then I
became aware of the problems Hong Kong faces. Every
autumn, I used to go hiking with my family. The days
were cool and pleasant. Then I realized Hong Kongs well-
defined seasons were gradually fading. Instead, people
suddenly changed from sleeveless summer clothing to
thick down jackets. The weather was either sweaty or
very occasionally frosty. Thats what changed me.
by Gonzalo flic.kr/p/ddP9h5
28
pp Monument to the Sun in Zadar, Croatia, consisting of multilayered glass plates with the photovoltaic solar modules underneath.
Common forms of renewable energy, such as solar and energy system [see photos]. At home, I try to persuade
wind power, are not very efficient and require plenty of my parents to consume less electricity. Sometimes they
space, a limited commodity in Hong Kong. Nevertheless, use air-conditioning too much or keep too many lights
there are solutions and floating solar panels are one switched on, but at least they are now aware of the need
possibility. They not only generate energy but also prevent for acquiring green living habits. While not everyone
evaporation. An installation in Japan that went into can innovate, we can all stay alert and play our part.
operation last year is expected to generate up to 20% more
energy than land-based solar panels. In Singapore, where Lets not be like the lazy, dozy frog, soaking away in
the largest system in the world was installed last October, its pot while the water boils. Instead, its time to do
bifacial solar cells which allow sunlight to enter from both some leapfrogging.* Look out for new technology
sides are used. There is also an active cooling feature using coming soon to Hong Kong places near you.
pumped water for cooling and improved performance.
*Leapfrog ahead
Although some people are very pessimistic, I firmly
believe that humanitys ability to innovate and apply The concept of leapfrogging is used in many domains,
technology will save us. On a study tour at Tsinghua including economic growth and business. The main idea
University I helped to design a small-scale sustainable is that small, incremental
innovations mean that
leaders stay ahead until a
radical change takes place.
It is often based on older
innovations and allows new
leaders to advance more
easily, thus leapfrogging
ahead. The idea comes from
the game where one child
bends down so that another
can use his or her back
easily as a hurdle.
pp A map board inspired the author and her classmates to design a bus stop
with solar power for charging mobile phones that incorporates rainwater
collection for cooling.
29
Perspectives
June 2017|Youth Hong Kong
Every day each of us puts about 1.3kg of rubbish in the To find out more, I went to a public forum at the
bin.1 Thats a lot more than neighbouring cities such Environmental Protection Department. The government
as Taipei, Seoul and Metro Tokyo where the rates are representatives were confident, referring to the results
under 1kg per person.2 Experts point to three factors: achieved by Taipei City and South Korea after introducing
our consumerist culture, small homes and busy lives.3 waste charging over a decade ago. [See Figure 1]
Most of Hong Kongs rubbish goes into landfills. Only However, they were rather vague when it came to the
about 37% is recycled.4 The situation is unsustainable. actual implementation of the Hong Kong scheme and their
Something has to be done to change our ways. We explanations were muddled, especially where enforcement
have tried charging for plastic bags. Now what? strategy for non-compliance was concerned. Plans to
improve the system of recycling and reuse were also unclear.
The government has decided to change behaviour.
Pointing to our pockets, it will soon be making
a typical Hong Kong family pay approximately
HK$50 per month5 on the Polluter Pays principle,
targeting a drop of 40% in the waste disposal rate.6
30
Figure 1 Waste disposal rates per capita: Hong Kong, Taipei City and South Korea
kg/day
1.5
Taipei City
0.5
(Household garbage)
Sources
1. epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/waste/data/stat_treat.html
2. Hong Kong: Blueprint for Sustainable Use of Resources 2013-2022.news.cleartheair.org.hk/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/WastePlan-E.pdf
3. Lo CH. Policy and Design for Waste Recycling in Hong Kong Communities, 2016.
4. gov.hk/en/residents/environment/waste/msw.htm
5. Waste disposal charge will cost a typical Hong Kong family HK$51 a month. South China Morning Post, 21 March, 2017. scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/2080508/11-cents-dump-1-
litre-trash-hong-kong-government
6. Two major charging modes are proposed in the Municipal Solid Waste Charging Scheme. For residents of buildings using Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) and its contractors service, the
charge will be $0.11 per litre of waste using designated garbage bags ranging from 3 to 100 litre sizes. For commercial/residential buildings and institutions that use private waste collectors services or dispose
of waste directly at refuse transfer stations (RTSs) or landfills, the charge will be a gate fee.
31
Perspectives
June 2017|Youth Hong Kong
I began to surf the net as a primary school student around I think of internet access as a social benefit. With the
2007. In those good old days, I could already chat with rise of social media and networking platforms like
friends through MSN, play online games and have my own Facebook, YouTube and Instagram, people around the
blog on Xanga. That might sound a lot, but for most of world can find and contact each other much more easily
the time I was not on the internet. Nowadays, we all rely than before. Even locally it helps to build networks
on it. Everybody has a cell phone, whatever is in your and I was surprised to learn that the Chief Executive-
pocket or brain, you basically cant live without it . its elect considered for a long time whether or not to go
part of your body now, said Mamoru Oshii, the well- on Facebook. Most of the worlds politicians did so
known director of the film Ghost in the Shell. It was one long ago, even President Xi Jinping. Are we slipping?
of the most thought-provoking ideas I have ever heard.
What about Hong Kongs online commerce? We have great
I am definitely a pro-internet person. The internet is so infrastructure but our system has not moved on. Take the
efficient. If you have a business idea but lack technicians Octopus card. It was the most innovative payment system
and partners to launch your programme, you can go to in the world when it was launched in 1997. Today, the most
Linkedin to build your network. If you are passionate innovative is not homegrown. It comes from mainland
about learning, you can find Massive Open Online Courses China. With Wechat Pay or Alipay you can use your mobile
(MOOCs) like Coursera. If you want to be a superstar or
an opinion leader, you can start uploading your videos on
YouTube. All you need is about
100,000 followers according to
the long tail concept [see box.]
32
The long tail concept
This term is used in online business, mass media, microfinance, user-driven innovation and social
network mechanisms such as crowdsourcing. Researchers have shown that by greatly lowering
search costs, information technology in general and internet markets in particular can substantially
increase the distribution of hard-to-find products, thereby creating a longer tail in sales.
Further reading en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Long_tail
phone to pay your tax bill or buy a movie ticket, all by the like Cantonese. Treasured by Hong Kong people as part
same method. Why did we not stay ahead of the crowd? of their cultural heritage, Cantonese is a special case when
it comes to automatic speech recognition. Software such
Perhaps we are not ready for a cashless world. Denmark as Dragon can speak in Cantonese, but the language
has already proposed a law to allow stores, restaurants and creates problems in some applications, according to
service stations to decline cash payments but detractors, Ken Yeung, co-founder and CEO of Clare.AI. This
the cash advocates, speak of a direct threat to everyones chatbot*, which enables financial institutions to provide
freedom. If all transactions were electronic they would customer services, will be used more and more in future
all be recorded, exposing vulnerable by businesses like banks, insurance companies and retail
data to the commercial sector firms, says Mr Yeung. But it will take a few more years
and the state in the process. before it becomes mainstream. You have slang, you
Do we want that? have mixed English plus Cantonese, and thats really
difficult compared with [standard] English.2
Regardless of our wants,
there is no doubt My view is that come the day when robots can listen
that the Internet of to us speaking in Cantonese, talk back in the same
Things and artificial language, and do our work, they must be earning
intelligence (AI) is a money for someone. So the government will be
reality. American technology able to tax them or their owners, wont it?
entrepreneur and academic, A San Francisco politician has already set
Vivek Wadhwa, has predicted up a working group on automation tax.
that robots and AI will Maybe that can happen here too and the
eliminate the need for human result will be a tax on robots that will fund
workers within 20 years.1 a basic universal income for us all!
In the meantime, it is a great
area to consider working in!
Samuel Lau, 22, is a past
One big challenge for robotics participant of HKFYGs
HK200 leadership
and AI is natural language voice
programme. He is a freelance
recognition, especially a language
writer at thinkhk.hk
33
Perspectives
June 2017 | Youth Hong Kong
My son, Michael, is in kindergarten and naturally one of actually assessing the performance of teachers and schools.
my top concerns is Hong Kongs education system. For It doesnt really assess childrens academic performance.
example, there is the Territory-wide System Assessment Nevertheless, it puts tremendous pressure on them.
(TSA) also known as the Basic Competency Assessments. This means the teachers are stressed as well as the pupils
Last year, revised arrangements for the TSA were put in they have to keep pushing to prepare for the test.
place and a group of primary schools were invited
or volunteered to take part in a trial of Overall, however, I have to admit that parents focus too
a less demanding version than much on their childrens academic performance. Hong
the old test. Now, Kong is too small and job options are more limited than
the TSA is in some places. There is a common belief that if you want
to get good pay and have a relatively comfortable life, you
have to work hard and get a degree from a good university.
If parents could see that there are many alternative career
opportunities which would allow their children to excel,
even without a particularly good academic performance,
they might be more open-minded and a bit less pushy.
34
Where home life is concerned, there is another kind of I hope that the government will focus on these issues,
problem. Although most people here are used to living especially where education is concerned so that my son
in small spaces it can get very difficult for young couples grows up confident and competent into this new world.
with small children. Many have to live with their parents
because they cant afford their own place. I think its fine Sometimes the new world looks a little daunting but
for young adults to stay with their parents, but only until I try to look on the bright side. I have confidence
they get married. If I were a policymaker I would allocate a in Hong Kong despite all its challenges. Perhaps we
specific quota of public housing flats to families with young can move forward together if we are determined and
children. I would also want to severely restrict the trend optimistic, as well keeping up with the changing
we see nowadays of private property developers marketing environment of learning and knowledge.
extremely small flats. They are very unhealthy. I would
also like to see the government stopping mainland people
from buying Hong Kong property. I think todays prices
are extremely high because the demand from mainlanders
is high. The majority of Hong Kong people are completely
unable to afford such ridiculously high property prices.
35
Talking point
June 2017|Youth Hong Kong
The concept of the Rule of Law can be confusing. It is, first Chief Executives, even those in the highest positions are
and foremost, a principle that is predicated on the existence subject to the law and can be convicted and punished
of laws or a system of law set up by representatives who for breaching it. The same is true for the prosecution
reflect the makeup of the communities they serve. Without of those who intentionally broke the law during the
laws, there would be anarchy or tyranny or both. Second, it Occupy movement. Article 25 of the Basic Law states,
relies on general acceptance that the law rules. At its bare All Hong Kong residents shall be equal before the law.
minimum, this means that whatever law is in force in a
country, it rules the lives of citizens of that country and What about human rights?
applies to everyone, although the law in force can evolve
and change from time to time as social values change. There is no question that principles of human rights
are part of the law in force in Hong Kong. They are
Of course, many suspect that some individuals behave as incorporated into the Basic Law, forming a central source
if the law doesnt apply to them. This may be because their of constitutional law that governs the rights of people in
connections make them feel that they are above the law their relationships with the government or state. Indeed,
or are immune from the consequences of breaking it. In Articles 26 to 42 spell out specific rights of residents,
fact, the legal system is not perfect and there will always from freedom of speech, assembly and movement to the
be those who break it and get away with it. Indeed, it is a inviolability of residents homes and other premises, as
longstanding principle of the common law that better a well as their right of access to the courts. Article 39 of the
guilty man go free than an innocent man be imprisoned. Basic Law entrenches the provisions of the International
Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and international
However, if those who get away with breaking the law are labour conventions, although Hong Kong
more than a very small minority, society has a problem and does have some opt-outs from the former.
the Rule of Law has been hijacked. Equally, if there are
people who are or seem to be persecuted or always in It has been argued that the Rule of
trouble with the law, then the legal system and society Law can exist almost anywhere, but
have a problem. It may be that the law needs reform or it cannot exist without at least some
the problem may have socio-economic causes. Otherwise, human rights being incorporated in
if ordinary people seem to be suffering from persecution, it, notably the right of access to the
there may be political causes and the law may be courts, equality before the law and
being used by those in power to suppress dissent.
36
right to the due process of the law. Lord Justice Bingham, incompatible with such overriding principles. That is why
former Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales and author judges must be independent, highly trained and possess
of an authoritative book on the Rule of Law, rejects what he integrity that is beyond question. This independent
calls a thin in favour of a thick definition of the Rule of judicial power of final adjudication (with some
Law. The latter embraces the protection of human rights. exceptions) is enshrined in the Basic Law, Article 18.
A state which savagely represses or persecutes sections of In the old days, laws used to be made by kings, perhaps
its [people] cannot in my view be regarded as observing giving rise to the expression: The law is king.3 Under
the rule of law, even if the transport of the persecuted the Basic Law, the laws in force in the Hong Kong
minority to the concentration camp is the subject of SAR are inherited: the common law, rules of equity,
detailed laws duly enacted and scrupulously observed.1 ordinances, regulations and customary laws previously
in force in the Territory (Art 8) and laws made by the
In other words, from a theoretical point of view, he disagrees legislature with some additions and deletions made by the
with this statement: A non-democratic legal system, Standing Committee of the National Peoples Congress
based on the denial of human rights, on extensive poverty, of the PRC (Art 18). So, almost all law in Hong Kong is
on racial segregation, sexual inequalities, and religious made by or may be changed by the HKSAR Legislature
persecution may, in principle, conform to the requirements the variously elected representatives of the people.
of the rule of law2 Of course, human rights are a big
part of the constitutional foundations of Hong Kong law. If we are striving to create a better world then the Rule
of Law must be bolstered not belittled. As Lord Justice
Who makes the law? Bingham says:, The concept of the rule of law is not
fixed for all time. Some countries do not subscribe to
Democracy implies that the laws governing a people should it fully, and some subscribe to it only in name, if that.
be made by them or their elected representatives, but in But in a world divided by differences of nationality,
reality, there are many countries where rules and regulations race, colour, religion and wealth it is one of the greatest
are made by subsidiary administrative bodies and even unifying factorsIt remains an ideal, but an ideal
presidential decrees or orders which are more or less rubber- worth striving for, in the interests of good government
stamped by the legislature. However, there should always and peace, at home and in the world at large.4
be oversight by the judiciary the judges and the system Note The authors pseudonym is Dr Ho But-lam.
of courts that not only interpret the meaning of the laws,
regulations, decrees and orders, but which have the power Further reading and sources
World Justice Project. Rule of Law. worldjusticeproject.
to annul such laws when they are in conflict with over- org/about-us/overview/what-rule-law
riding principles such as those found in a constitution. Department of Justice, HKSARG. Legal System in Hong Kong. doj.gov.hk/eng/legal/
1. Bingham, T. The Rule of Law. Allen Lane, 2010. p.67.
2. Raz, J: The Authority of the Rules of Law, OUP, 1979.
In Hong Kong, the Basic Law is seen as a mini-constitution. 3. Thomas Paine (1776), English-American political activist, philosopher, political theorist, and
revolutionary.
It is difficult to work out when laws are inconsistent or 4. Bingham, T. op cit p.174.
Editors Brian Fong Chi-hang This timely account examines the social and political
and Lui Tai-Lok development of Hong Kong since 1997. It describes
the changes which have affected social mobilization
Publisher Palgrave Macmillan
and political activism in Hong Kong and the pattern of
Due July 2017 interaction between the government and civil society.
37
Youth watch
June 2017 | Youth Hong Kong
Youth policy
J ennifer Lam takes a look at youth policy-making around
the world, showing how governments listen to youth and
empower them.
As of 2014, 1221 countries had a national youth policy and at the first Global Forum on Youth Policies
that year there were delegates from 165 countries and 115 governments.2 Discussion took place on a
framework for youth policies and how they should be planned, financed, implemented and evaluated.3
Australia China
Definition of youth 12-24 year-olds Mainland China At present, China
doesnt have an explicitly written,
Youth policy The National Youth Strategy embodies Australias youth
unified national youth policy, nor
policy, the goals of which are to empower young people to build their
an official executive mechanism for
own lives, enable young Australians to learn to take responsibility for implementing or monitoring national
their actions, become more resilient in order to navigate lifes challenges or regional youth affairs. Youth policy
and build a healthier, safer and more productive Australia.4 is a component of overall policy.9
Hong Kong Formulating policies
Representative platform The Strategy established the Australian Youth Forum concerning youth has been
and National Conversation to listen to young people and ask for their views. An the responsibility of various
independently run National Youth Council of Australia brings together youth governmental departments and non-
organizations and provides a platform for cooperation and discussion. It also governmental organizations in the
operates an advisory arm that provides all levels of government and business with past. Going forward, the proposed
the opportunity to connect with youth councillors aged 18-30.Each year the Youth Development Commission will
Council holds a National Youth Conference at which delegates debate a range formulate youth policy and implement
of issues and prepare an advisory paper for government and businesses on the goals embodied in central guiding
topics discussed.5 In March 2016, two senators also called on the government to principles for youth development.10
[See Interview pages 8-11.]
appoint a Minister for Young People to address the needs of the countrys youth.6
Macau The Macau Youth Policy
(2012-2020) is undergoing its first
Youth view In a 2016 pre-election poll, the most important issues for phase of implementation. A mid-term
17-25 year-olds were climate change, asylum seekers and marriage review was conducted in 2016.11
equality.7 44.6% said they would support the left-wing Greens because
the other major parties were ignoring these issues.8
by ILO in Asia and the Pacific flic.kr/p/cAkhv7
by Michael Coghlan flic.kr/p/hhpTsJ
38
and youth views India
by Utenriksdepartementet UD flic.
Definition of youth 15-29year-olds
Youth policy The 2014 national youth policy aims
kr/p/a6DUqQ
to create a productive workforce that contributes
to Indias economic development and a strong and
healthy generation. Other goals are the promotion
Finland of social values and community services, facilitation
of participation and civic engagement, support for
Definition of youth Under 29 years of age youth at risk and the creation of equal opportunities
Youth policy Finlands Youth Act seeks to support for all disadvantaged and marginalized youth.16
young peoples growth and independence, to promote
active citizenship and empowerment and to improve Representative platform Youth organizations in India are
growth and living conditions for youth. Responsibility fragmented, with little coordination between the various
for youth work and youth policy lies with the Ministry stakeholders according to the national youth policy.
of Education. The Child and Youth Policy Programme Various national platforms and party youth wings exist,
2012-2015 includes nine strategic goals relating to active yet, there are no systematic channels for engagement
citizenship, employment, non-discrimination, gender between the government and young citizens and no
equality, education and health.12 One of the goals of this mechanisms for youth to provide input to government.17
policy,13 developed with input from young people, is to give However, there is support for participation in the political
youth social empowerment and expand their opportunities process by engaging young people in monitoring elections
to voice opinions and influence decision-making. and by helping them to identify relevant civic and
social issues. Project Citizen is one example. It arranges
Representative platform The Finnish Youth Cooperation meetings with relevant government officials and offers
is the umbrella youth organization. Its purpose is to advice on devising action plans and alternative policy.18
encourage young people to become responsible members
of society and help them participate in decision-making Youth view In 2014, 150 million 18-23 year-olds
processes and international activities. It lobbies decision- became qualified to vote for the first time and 18-19
makers, youth workers and youth organizations, year-olds now comprise 14% of eligible voters.19 27
and provides services directly to young people. youth groups had instigated workshops and online
dialogues to find out what young people wanted the
The government is working with local authorities and youth government to promise.20
organizations to improve the system for listening to young
peoples opinions and has adopted an online feedback tool
called eDemocracy in schools. The Finnish government
encourages political youth groups and its Youth Act states
that municipalities must involve young people in the
preparation of youth policies and listen to their opinions.14
by Commonwealth Secretariat flic.
but 21% said they would abstain as they felt that they
had no opinion upon which to base their votes.15
39
Youth watch
June 2017 | Youth Hong Kong
Japan Mongolia
Definition of youth Under 30 years of age 21 Definition of youth 15-34 year-olds
Youth policy The Vision for Children and Young People Youth policy The aims of the National Programme
outlines the 2009 Act on the Promotion of Development on Adolescents and Youth Development are to create
and Support for Children and Young People, and replaces a favourable environment for youth, to encourage
the National Youth Development Policy. Principles include them to take responsibility for themselves and for
treating youth as partners with adults and providing society, to protect their rights and improve their
support to youth to become proactive members of society. 22 participation in social, economic and political life.26
Representative platform Japan does not have Representative platform The Mongolian Youth
a national youth council. Youth involvement Federation maintains a leading role in national policy
in civil society is segmented. development for youth. It focuses on education, health,
employment and other issues. The United Nations
Youth view In 2015, Japan lowered its voting age Development Programme is currently running a youth
from 20 to 18. In the 2016 Upper House election participation and civil education programme aiming to
45.45% of them actually voted23 whereas in the last increase the number of youth voices in policy in Mongolia.
national election only 35.3% of 20-24 year olds
and 40.25% of 25-29 year-olds voted. In 2014, the Youth view Recent surveys reveal widespread
prime minister said he was in favour of bringing dissatisfaction among Mongolian youth, with the
the younger generation into Japanese politics countries economic situation described as bad or
with the help of schools, election boards and local very bad by 41.3% of respondents. Approximately
communities. 24 A 2015 Japan Youth Research half of Mongolian youth surveyed were dissatisfied
Institute poll showed that only 6.5% of Japanese with their jobs. In addition, 75% of respondents
high-school students believed that they could make wanted to emigrate.27
a difference in politics.25
php?curid=24648536
Sources
1. youthpolicy.org/blog/youth-policy-reviews-evaluations/state-of-youth-policy-2014/
2. youthpolicyforum.<wbr />org/documents/commitment.pdf
3. undp.org/content/dam/undp/library/Democratic%20Governance/Youth/2014%20-%20REPORT%20-%201st%20Global%20Forum%20on%20Youth%20Policies.pdf
4. youthpolicy.org/national/Australia_2010_National_Youth_Strategy.pdf
5. youthcouncil.org.au/
6. abc.net.au/triplej/programs/hack/is-the-time-right-for-a-minister-for-youth/8387988
7. Marriage equality is the movement which supports same-sex marriage. australianmarriageequality.org/get-informed/quick-facts/
8. smh.com.au/federal-politics/federal-election-2016/election-2016-major-parties-ignoring-what-young-people-want-20160613-gphxfv.html
9. youthpolicy.org/pdfs/factsheets/china.pdf; youthpolicy.org/national/China_2011_Youth_Policy_Situation_Article.pdf
40
UK World trends:
Signs of youth engagement in public affairs
Definition of youth 13-19 year-olds
Youth policy England, Northern Ireland, Scotland The Youth Development Index suggests that
and Wales all have recent youth policy and/or youth despite young people in general becoming less
work strategies. Positive for Youth is a document interested in formal politics, they are engaged
that contains a number of policies that apply across as much as ever with civic and political affairs,
the UK.28 Responsibility for youth policy lies with the
as evidenced by youth-led protests and
Ministry of Education to the Cabinet Office which
single-issue campaigns. However, they prefer
supports the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister.
However, there is no youth department as such.29 alternative modes of participation to elections.
Political participation of young people in North
Representative platform The British Youth Parliament America, Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa grew
aims to provide opportunities for 11-18 year-olds to more than elsewhere in the world with an
bring about social change through representation and overall increase of nearly 6% between 2010
campaigning.30 In 2016, almost a million young people and 2015. South America, Central America,
voted for discussion topics to be included at the Youth the Caribbean and South Asia were the top
Parliament and 276 youth MPs (MYPs) took part in performing regions for political participation.
the debate. The 2017 campaign includes topics such as
The lowest were the Middle East, North Africa
lowering the voting age to 16 or 17, health cuts, cheaper
transport, racism and discrimination, and the introduction and the Asia-Pacific.34
of a school curriculum for life. MYPs are elected by
their peers and each local education authority in England
and Wales has its own Youth Parliament Constituency.31
campaigns, direct action, petitions, and politics- 11. mindbank.info/item/4782 [in Chinese]
28. youthpolicy.org/national/United_Kingdom_2011_Youth_Policy_Framework.pdf
29. youthpolicy.org/factsheets/country/united-kingdom/
30. ukyouthparliament.org.uk/
31. civilservice.blog.gov.uk/2014/09/05/why-should-government-listen-to-young-people/
32. Jacqueline Briggs, Young People and Political Participation: Teen Players
33. bangthetable.com/news/youth-political-participation-uk/
34. cmydiprod.uksouth.cloudapp.azure.com/sites/default/files/2016-10/2016%20Global%20Youth%20
Development%20Index%20and%20Report.pdf
41
Promoting STEM Education
in Primary Schools
S TEM education benefits primary students but adoption in Hong Kong schools has been slow.
Why are we lagging behind some other countries?
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Kong primary schools also encountered obstacles when they
(STEM) education helps to equip students with the tried to promote STEM education. These included problems
practical skills, knowledge and tools that they will need in concerning teaching staff, subventions and resources.
life. It may also mean that they will contribute to Hong
Kongs international competitiveness. However, 40% of the Comments from think tank members
students polled were not familiar with STEM education. Arnold Chan, group convener There should be a scholarship
scheme to reward undergraduates who study STEM-related subjects
Furthermore, nearly 50% did not participate in any STEM-
and who want to be primary teachers. This would encourage
related learning activities because they said they had too talented young people to develop STEM education at primary level.
many other assignments whereas 36% said their lack of
Derrick Fan, group member Extending the scope of the
interest was either due to the high cost of such classes or existing Paid Non-local Study Leave Scheme for Secondary
their lack of desire to learn STEM subjects (36.0%). School Teachers so that it includes primary school teachers
would also help. This would enrich their pedagogy and give
The survey also revealed that according to the students own them on-site experiential learning in other countries.
self-assessment, their levels of creativity and problem-solving Alan Yip, group member Cooperation between parents,
skills were normal or mediocre.i Some of the STEM experts schools and professional organizations could promote STEM
education. In addition, the establishment of a STEM Learning
and educators interviewed also claimed that some Hong
Community* would raise public awareness of its importance.
i. 5.95 and 5.79 respectively on a 0-10 scale, 10 indicates extremely good and 5 indicates normal.
42
Creative Craftsmanship Development
Challenge or Opportunity?
A ccording to this study, businesses in the creative crafts offer alternative careers for young
people but the shortage of space and lack of artisanal talent create hurdles for those who
want to enter the field.
The creative economy is growing worldwide and Cases involved in the study, including those related to
opening businesses in various forms of craft has become leather ware, glassware, clocks and watches, clothing,
popular among the younger generation in Hong Kong. jewellery and handmade beer, show that the growth of
However, 28.2% of the respondents to this survey such business is certainly limited by shortage of space.
thought the greatest hurdle for developing craftsmanship Such artisanal work requires more space for the creation
was lack of talent. 23% thought it was lack of space. and retail of products than internet-based business do,
for example. Nevertheless, all such businesses need to
overcome management and technical problems and for
craft-related businesses to scale up, the need to become
involved in mass production means that space is crucial.
43
How Young People
Cope with Stress
I n a highly competitive society like Hong Kongs, many adolescents experience stress, often
exacerbated by personal, family and social factors.
44
HKFYG
June 2017|Youth Hong Kong
Adventure leadership
LEAD+ Smart Inventor LEAD Lab The Walker
volunteer training
Learn to code and create with
Go rafting, climbing, abseiling and more Take your lessons in a natural environment
Arduino microcontroller
Activities Activities Activities
Design and create personalized Learn to lead outdoors adventures Combine physics and learning
interactive inventions Build a team while building leadership skills in the great outdoors
Learn to code and solve logical Volunteer as leaders at Theory & action classes
reasoning problems future HKFYG camps Location HKFYG Jockey Club Hung
Collaborate with peers through Location HKFYG Heng Fa Chuen Hom Youth SPOT, Shatin District
hands-on practice Youth SPOT, Eastern District
Location LEAD Lab HQ, 1/F HKFYG Dates
Building, 21 Pak Fuk Road, North Point Dates 29 June - 10 August Tuesdays 11 & 28 July, 1 & 8 August
Age 17-25 Time 8.30am-10pm
Date 25 July - 22 August (5 Sessions) Fee HK$300 Sundays 16 July, 23 July and 13 August
Time 10.30am-12.30pm Contact To Yau 2557 0142 Time 9am-6pm
Age 9-15 Deadline for registration 30 June Age 15-25
Fee HK$980 Online registration easymember. Fee HK$450
Contact Edmond Hui 3755 7079 hk/eportal/Program/ProgramDetail. Contact Alex Auyeung 2715 0424
aspx?PID=17001442-1
Deadline for Deadline for
registration 20 July registration 10 July
Online registration Online registration
easymember.hk/eportal/ easymember.hk/eportal/
Program/ProgramDetail. Program/ProgramDetail.
aspx?PID=17003653-1 aspx?PID=17001912-1
Concert of Ten TP L U S A t t e m p t a t G u i n n e s s
I n celebration of the 20th Anniversary of the Hong Kong SAR, 10,000 young people will
come together in concert, singing of shared dreams, passions and hope for the future.
Their enthusiasm and positive energy symbolize Hong Kong moving forward.
Supported on stage by
140 choral music students
16 professional singers
2 dance troupes
Percussion group
Marching band
46
Thousand Voices
W o r l d R e c o r d f o r B e a t b o x
Overseas Guest Performers
Club For Five - the world-renowned a cappella group from Finland
Club For Five, one of the best, most versatile a cappella groups in the world,
sings everything from classical music to heavy metal and gentle jazz. Delighting
live audiences with their chameleon-like quality, they are also well-known for
their expert studio work and gold-selling albums. Firmly rooted in a strong
Nordic musical tradition, they translate haunting, icy cold, winter landscapes of
the North into beautiful jazz harmonies and ethno flavours. In Chinese-speaking
parts of Asia, audiences love their Mandarin rendition of Wan Wan De Yue Liang.
Tobias Hug
Tobias Hug will be an adviser for the attempt to set a
Guinness World Record at the Coliseum on 26 June. Based Sponsors
in London, Tobias has been working for more than 20 years
as an inspiring teacher of vocal percussion in places as
diverse as Singapore, Norway, China and Kenya. From 2001-
2012, he sang with Grammy-Award winners, The Swingle Venue Sponsor
Singers, who performed in the 2011 HKFYG Jockey Club
Hong Kong International a cappella Festival Master Series.
He was a judge for the HKFYG a Cappella Contest in 2016.
Media support
Co-created Art by
1,000+ youth
China Week 2017
S ymbolizing the creative flights of childrens imagination, over 1,500 pieces of marbled
paper created by students will be used to build a huge mosaic. To go on display in Wan
Chai, commemorating the HKSARs 20 th anniversary.
Hundreds of pieces of decorative marbled paper made by young
people will be combined by digital software to create the image in
this display. To be unveiled on 29 June, from the micro view, every
piece of work done by the students is a contribution to the whole.
From a macro view, the entire, huge image on display will reflect
their creativity, their flair and their hopes for Hong Kongs future.
The young artists, all of whom are aged from 6-18, are students at
art studios, children at primary schools or secondary school pupils.
48
Unveiling 29 June 2017 4pm
Venue Lee Tung Avenue, 200 Queens
Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
On show from 29 June and into the month of July
Sponsor Sino Group
Organizer HKFYG
Supporting Organizations Xu Beihong Arts
Committee, Lee Tung Avenue Management Co Ltd
Special thanks to Professor Xu Qingping
and Dr Dominic Lam Man-kit
49
HKFYG
June 2017|Youth Hong Kong
Partnering organization
The resources explain the reasons, framework, Various schools were invited to trial the resource kits and
process and influence of the Belt and Road Initiative. positive feedback was received from the teachers involved.
They are for teachers with senior secondary They indicated that the resources are very informative
students in Hong Kong liberal studies classes. and attractive and could help them prepare lessons.
Launch with
Resource
Teachers Seminar
Kits
6 July 2017
Contents include Guest Speakers Dr Simon Shen and Mr George Tsang
Videos Factsheets Topic Broadening Horizons with the Belt and Road
Infographics Information notes Time 2.45pm5pm
Worksheets Teaching guidelines
Venue 25/F HKFYG Building
Topics covered
Overview of Belt and Road Initiative Target 100 Secondary school teachers
Infrastructure connectivity along the Belt and Road Download kits m21.hk/friendship/teaching-materials/
China-Pakistan Economic Corridor
Chinas cooperation with Central Asia and West Asia Enquiries Ms Wong 3422 3161
Chinas cooperation with Southeast Asia
HKFYG Student Support Centre
Financial cooperation and integration Email ssc@hkfyg.org.hk
International relations concerning the Belt and Road Initiative
Hong Kongs role in the Belt and Road Initiative
The Belt and Road Initiative aims to promote Focus of five routes
international economic cooperation through policy (1) Linking China to Europe through Central Asia and Russia
coordination, trading and financing collaboration,
(2) Middle East through Central Asia
offering new markets, modern infrastructure
and exchange opportunities as well as cultural (3) Bringing together China and Southeast Asia,
cooperation for participating countries and regions. South Asia and the Indian Ocean
The Belt and Road concept connects Asia, Europe (4) Linking China with Europe through the South China Sea and Indian Ocean
and Africa along five routes in the Silk Road Economic (5) Connecting China with the South Pacific Ocean
Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road. through the South China Sea
40 %
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Publisher :
The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups hkfyg.org.hkm21.hk
Youth Hong Kong: 21/F, The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups Building, 21 Pak Fuk Road, North Point, Hong Kong
Tel : 3755 70843755 7108Fax : 3755 7155Email : youthhongkong@hkfyg.org.hkWebsite : youthhongkong.hkfyg.org.hk
The title of this journal in Chinese is Xiang Gang Qing Nian
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