Editorial | Hong Kong should temper optimism with caution in Year of the Horse
Another neutral prophecy puts the onus on the city to proceed with prudence and act to bring about its own good fortune
The stick, one of 96 drawn from a bamboo cylinder at Che Kung Temple in Sha Tin, read: “Do not get close to a wooden man; judge people by their good and evil deeds. Never forget righteousness when seeing benefits and beware of non-benevolence in the midst of benevolence.”
Lau offered an interpretation as he called on the city to remain vigilant amid complex geopolitical tensions. “We need to be more meticulous and careful in our work,” he said. “We can only achieve good results by thinking with our hearts.” He urged the city to embrace innovation, particularly in the Northern Metropolis megaproject. Lau also stressed the need for prudence.
Feng shui masters have warned Hongkongers and world leaders to be careful to avoid conflicts during the Year of the Horse, saying the zodiac sign contains excessive “fire energy”. Lee, describing the horse in his new year message as an animal that boldly charged ahead and covered vast distances, called on Hong Kong to move with “agility and steadiness” to seize opportunities and overcome challenges.
Two years ago, after the Covid-19 pandemic, a neutral stick for the Year of the Dragon had the city trapped in a forest. One year ago, the neutral stick for the Year of the Snake advised Hongkongers to “not be greedy and live within your means”. Hong Kong might have emerged from the woods, but it is well advised to remain vigilant.