Save Hong Kong from its naysayers
Mak Kwok Wah says we need to banish the pettiness and negativism pervading politics and the media, lest Hong Kong lose its dynamism
On the occasion of Singapore's national day this month, its prime minister, Lee Hsien Loong, delivered a speech containing some important points that Hong Kong's critics should seriously reflect upon.
Lee drew attention to the achievements of the island republic, such as its efficient infrastructure and social welfare policy. But what might have escaped the attention of many was his call for - a Malay expression describing how a community mobilises itself to help one another.
Lee cited Singapore's Malay community as setting a good example to follow with their strong spirit of . In particular, he pointed out how members of Malay-Muslim organisations are joining hands to meet socio-economic needs. This has brought significant improvements to Malay Singaporeans, including higher incomes and better education standards, and Lee urged other community groups to follow suit and do more to help one another.
Like Singapore, Hong Kong is a shining example of a small territory with minimal natural assets that by sheer determination - plus the ingenuity of its leaders and the sweat of its masses - wrought an economic miracle. To accomplish this "Hong Kong miracle", we bonded and worked together to get the job done, however tough it was.
We should ask ourselves whether we are happy with our life, and whether we are enjoying far better conditions than did our parents or grandparents when they migrated here from the mainland. For most, the answer to these questions would be "yes".
Though some of us seem to forget, Hong Kong has a lot going for it: a sizeable public housing scheme, an independent and effective judicial system, and low tax rates.
