"Casting a vote isn't just for myself—it's about hoping Hong Kong develops for the better, benefiting everyone." Miss Zhou, who became a permanent resident of HK this year, registered as a voter immediately after obtaining qualifications. For her, voting is not only a way to integrate into HK society but also a commitment to building a better city.
To make the process meaningful, she specifically took time off work to delve into local community issues and compare the platforms of different candidates. Determined to make the best choice, she vows to choose the most suitable candidate for HK's future. She said, "I plan to chat with people from my hometown and neighbors who've voted before, and study the candidates' platforms. My daughter tells me to vote based on my real convictions—don't take it lightly. Vote for whoever aligns with your standards."
Having moved from Sichuan to HK seven years ago, Miss Zhou registered as a voter for the first time this year and will cast her first vote in the upcoming Legislative Council (LegCo) election in the geographical constituency. Living in Hung Fuk Estate in Yuen Long, she recalls starting her life in HK from scratch seven years ago.
To her, voting was merely something "other people did" in the past. Although her daughter and husband occasionally mentioned it, she only observed from the sidelines. "When I went to the Immigration Department this year to apply for permanent residency, the staff proactively encouraged me to register as a voter." Initially, she declined, but after further reflection at home, she realized, "This is both a civic responsibility and a right." She promptly completed her voter registration.
Concerned about housing and transportation issues
Miss Zhou admits that she previously had only a superficial understanding of elections. Her daily routine of working, commuting, and taking care of family left little room to engage with the election campaigns. "I sleep in the mornings and work night shifts, so I often miss campaign activities on the streets." Her main source of information has been her mobile phone. "Most news is now on mobile apps—I rarely watch television." Occasionally, she glances at newspapers while working.
However, she admits that this level of information is far from sufficient. To make an informed choice, she has decided to take the initiative. "Before voting, I'll take time off to properly engage with the community and learn more." She plans to talk to people from her hometown as well as neighbors who've voted before, and study the candidates' platforms in detail. "My daughter says to vote based on your true beliefs—don't vote casually. Choose the one who meets your expectations."
As a grassroots new immigrant, Miss Zhou's concerns are practical—housing and transportation. "In the past, transportation around Hung Fuk Estate was very inconvenient. It's somewhat better now with new housing developments, but I still hope the Northern Metropolis project can drive development in Yuen Long as a whole."
She has observed that many new immigrants and grassroots citizens are waiting for public rental housing. "Some people can't afford to buy homes, even if they have the money. When I see the places where some people are living, it's really heartbreaking." She hopes the government can build more housing and increase subsidies. "Legislators aren't omnipotent, but they can help voice our concerns and provide oversight, which is very useful."
Initially unclear about the role of the LegCo, she nodded in understanding after a reporter explained it to her. "So, legislators help citizens by making suggestions and questioning the government. One person's voice may not count for much, but as long as they're dedicated, it's enough."
Candidates' practical work in the community stands out
In the past, while Miss Zhou benefited from support provided by local community workers, including campaign calls to solicit votes, she believes voting should not be based on personal favors. "It's not about who's helped me; it's about who truly cares for the public." She gave an example: some candidates have done a lot of practical work in the community, which is evident to everyone. However, voting isn't just about visible deeds—it's also about evaluating the overall platform. "You have to choose someone who is down-to-earth and dedicated."
Reflecting on the social unrest in 2019, Miss Zhou strongly feels the importance of independent thinking. "Don't follow the crowd, don't be incited, and don't blindly admire foreign ideas." She emphasized that HK's stability and development under "one country, two systems" must be safeguarded. "No one wants to see the city fall into chaos again." She hopes the new LegCo members will serve as role models for young people. "If the government performs well, praise them; if they don't, criticize them. Speak based on facts and work pragmatically—that's the responsible attitude."
(Source: Wen Wei Po; Journalist: Guang Ji; English Editor: Zoey SUN)
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