In Hong Kong, a vibrant and inclusive international city, many non-Chinese residents have established deep roots—raising families, building careers, and making this city their home. For them, casting a vote in the Legislative Council (LegCo) election isn't just a civic duty—it's a heartfelt expression of belonging and hope for the city's future.
"My Vote Can Help Build the Community"
Niru, a stylish professional in her 40s, is a second-generation Hongkonger of Nepalese descent. Her father worked as a renowned chef of Indian cuisine in a local hotel for over 45 years, making the family deeply connected to the city. Born and raised in Hong Kong, Niru is now raising her children—the third generation—who speak both Cantonese and Mandarin.
"My hometown friends envy me for being a Hongkonger," Niru said proudly. She appreciates the city's safety and diversity. "As a woman, I can work late into the night without worry. My family never feels uneasy because they know how safe Hong Kong is."
Niru shared her love for Hong Kong's multiculturalism, where she can cook her traditional food, dance native styles, and share her culture through volunteer work. Having voted in three previous LegCo elections, she is preparing for her fourth on December 7. "Voting lets me contribute to the betterment of my community—like improving parks, elderly services, and cleaner wet markets."
She hopes to vote in Sheung Wan, where her husband runs a restaurant, believing her vote can help support the district's development. If not, she'll return to her home constituency in Ma On Shan to cast her ballot.
"I Will Vote Because Hong Kong Is My Home"
Dody, a 47-year-old Egyptian businessman, moved to Hong Kong in 2000 after marrying a local woman. He has since built a family and business here. His 24-year-old son, born and raised in Hong Kong, speaks fluent Chinese and works in a public institution—truly part of the next generation in Hong Kong.
An entrepreneur since the age of 27, Dody once operated five bars and restaurants in Hong Kong. Though he has scaled back to two, he remains optimistic. "One shop closes, another opens. That's Hong Kong!"
Dody admires the city's efficiency, flexibility, and dynamic pace. He also deeply enjoys Hong Kong's food culture, especially dim sum: "I could eat it every day—har gow, siu mai, you name it."
He believes foreign-run restaurants must localize to thrive and sees voting as part of his responsibility to "take care of the home" he has adopted. "I will vote because Hong Kong is my home," he said, smiling, "and I always listen to my wife when it comes to who to vote for!"
Dody also enjoys traveling to the mainland, describing cities like Shenzhen and Guangzhou as convenient getaways. He and his family even bought property across the border and recently visited Zhangjiajie, marveling at its natural beauty. His dream is to visit the Great Wall someday and experience the historical grandeur of China firsthand.
"Taking Action for a Better Hong Kong"
Daniel Szuc, originally from Australia, has lived in Hong Kong for 26 years and now goes by the Chinese name Song Kai Fung. As a qualified voter, he has participated in both LegCo and District Council elections and looks forward to voting again on December 7.
He praises Hong Kong's strategic location and connectivity. "You can take a ferry to Macao, a flight to Beijing, or hop on the high-speed rail to the Greater Bay Area. It's all within reach."
Daniel and his wife organized a volunteer clean-up team during the 2019 unrest to scrub away graffiti, showing their care for the city's image and spirit. He also appreciated the Hong Kong government's efficient response during the pandemic and the Central Government's solid support.
Daniel believes that the LegCo has recently become more focused and pragmatic, addressing the real needs of citizens instead of engaging in petty disputes. As a user experience consultant, he now focuses on "human skills" training and hopes future lawmakers will pay more attention to soft skills education.
"Voting is a right and a responsibility," he said. "Let's take real action to build a better Hong Kong."
For Hongkongers of all backgrounds, including ethnic minorities, voting is more than a civic ritual—it's a declaration of commitment, identity, and shared vision for the city. As the 2025 Legislative Council election approaches, voices like Niru, Dody, and Daniel remind us that Hong Kong's strength lies in its diversity, resilience, and united effort to shape a brighter future.
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