Opinion | Policy Address to propel HK's reforms forward
By Chen Shu
Chief Executive John Lee delivered his third Policy Address on Oct. 16. Compared to the beginning of his tenure, although the COVID-19 pandemic has ended and the borders between Hong Kong and the Mainland have fully reopened, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) is still facing many challenges due to the complex external environment. In this Policy Address, Lee adopted the theme "Reform for Enhancing Development and Building Our Future Together," emphasizing the need for reform and transformation. The address not only tackles macro-level challenges but also introduces various targeted micro-level measures, covering a wide range of issues. These initiatives are expected to drive Hong Kong's development and address the pressing problems that require change.
At the beginning of the Policy Address, Lee recalled that during his candidacy for the Chief Executive position, he had advocated for a "spirit of change" and "further innovation." His goal is to establish a "results-oriented" government, set performance indicators to reform the government culture, form care teams to enhance community services, launch a "PRH Advance Allocation Scheme" to help citizens shorten their waiting time for public rental housing, and address intergenerational poverty for subdivided flat tenants with junior high school students by proposing a series of innovative measures. More than two years have passed, and it is clear that many of Lee's promises are being implemented, and efforts are being made to push forward these reforms.
Currently, the global situation remains tense, and many countries are grappling with economic instability. Some of the initiatives in the Policy Address merit commendation. For instance, Lee has proposed building an international gold trading market, establishing the Hong Kong Maritime and Port Development Board, and promoting the development of high value-added maritime services. In terms of developing new quality productive forces, he has promoted the third Inno HK research cluster. Additionally, the SAR government also plans to advance low-altitude economy initiatives, which have already gained popularity in the Mainland.
If promoting the economy is a top priority of the government, then supporting the elderly and disadvantaged groups is a crucial demonstration of the government's compassion. Housing issues have long plagued millions of Hong Kong residents. Lee's proposals to increase the supply of public rental housing will undoubtedly benefit low-income families in secure homes. Moreover, addressing the issue of subdivided flats and supporting young people in purchasing subsidized sale flats responds to longstanding societal demands. This shows the government's willingness to tackle difficult issues and its commitment to solving problems for the citizens.
Like other developed regions, Hong Kong is also facing the challenge of an aging population. During his earlier visits to grassroots healthcare facilities, it was expected that Lee would make efforts to improve elderly care and support caregivers. As anticipated, he has proposed various measures to address these issues. Alongside targeted poverty alleviation and support for working parents, these combined initiatives aim to provide better care and support for everyone—from the elderly to ordinary families and the youth—transforming Hong Kong into a more compassionate and inclusive society.
Indeed, while Hong Kong has developed significantly over the years, it has also accumulated many issues. Economically, its previously narrow industrial focus has made it vulnerable to external shocks, particularly in the financial and trading sectors. It is evident that Hong Kong must diversify its economy and cannot remain stagnant. On the livelihood front, the housing issue has persisted for years. Many citizens, still dreaming of securing housing or cars, urgently need the SAR government to accelerate progress and provide low-income residents with suitable homes.
Lee's determination to reform and his commitment to driving change are evident. While it may not be possible to resolve all societal issues overnight, we are beginning to see hope in addressing these problems. This gives us greater confidence in Hong Kong's future and raises our expectations for its continued development.
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