Your Voice: Harry Potter in Shanghai, formal sex education in schools (long letters)

The prospect of a Harry Potter-themed space at Jinjiang Action Park in Shanghai holds immense promise for fans of the franchise and the city’s tourism industry.

As Shanghai intensifies its efforts to attract travellers in an increasingly competitive landscape, introducing an immersive Harry Potter experience could be a significant draw. A well-crafted themed experience will captivate audiences.

This initiative aligns perfectly with the global trend of integrating popular culture into tourism. The potential transformation of Jinjiang Action Park – an attraction in Shanghai since 1984 – into “The Making of Harry Potter” immersive experience shows the city’s commitment to innovate and adapt.

The collaboration between local authorities and Warner Bros is promising.

According to Zhang Qi, a deputy director of the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism, discussions could lead to a landmark partnership that will revitalise the long-standing amusement park and strengthen Shanghai as a leading travel destination in Asia.

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While the projected annual visitor count of over 2 million and an estimated revenue of more than US$150 million (HK$1.17 billion) are ambitious goals, they are not unattainable.

The success of such a venture will largely depend on the quality of the experience offered. It is crucial that the immersive elements of the park truly capture the essence of the Harry Potter universe to attract dedicated fans and those unfamiliar with it.

Attention to detail, creative storytelling and engaging attractions will be of the greatest importance in ensuring that visitors leave with unforgettable memories. Careful consideration must also be given to maintaining authenticity, managing potentially large crowds and ensuring the park’s long-term appeal in a competitive market.

Timing is crucial. As the world recovers from the pandemic, more travellers are seeking unique and immersive experiences. By tapping into the nostalgic and magical appeal of Harry Potter, Shanghai can attract not only local visitors but also international tourists who may be planning trips to the region.

In conclusion, the proposed Harry Potter-themed park has the potential to transform Shanghai’s tourism landscape. It is a bold step that could pave the way for further investments in themed attractions and cultural experiences.

The success of this venture could not only transform Shanghai’s tourism sector but also set a new standard for themed entertainment in Asia. I eagerly await the unveiling of this project and the opportunity to experience the magic first-hand.

Orelia Poon Sze-ching, SKH Tsang Shiu Tim Secondary School

The Kwun Tong Promenade has recently become the subject of heated debate. The controversy? Young people spotted on the waterfront in a video, holding up signs offering free hugs and kisses to strangers.

Teenagers are emotional, and it is common for them to hug and kiss one another. While such behaviour might seem outrageous to some, it almost feels normal when you step onto Kwun Tong Promenade.

In my opinion, hugging or even kissing is acceptable. However, some teenagers are engaging in activities that are inappropriate for their age, including sexual behaviour.

This highlights a deep-rooted and widespread issue: the inadequacy of sexual education for Hong Kong teenagers.

This problem is largely rooted in cultural conventions. In Chinese culture, discussing topics related to sexual education is often considered taboo.

This cultural reluctance to openly address sex creates a stigma around the subject, leaving many parents and educators uncomfortable discussing sexual health.

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As a result, young people are left uninformed and unprepared. Without proper guidance, teenagers may not fully understand the serious consequences of engaging in sexual activity, such as contracting sexually transmitted diseases or teenage pregnancy.

Beyond cultural factors, peer influence and misinformation also play a significant role. With limited access to formal sexual education, teens often turn to their peers or the internet for information.

This can be problematic, as peers may not have accurate knowledge about sexual health and relationships. This informal “education” can perpetuate myths and misconceptions about consent, contraception and sexual orientation.

Additionally, many adolescents are exposed to harmful stereotypes or unrealistic expectations about sex, and some may feel pressured by their peers to explore this “mysterious activity.”

In conclusion, Hong Kong must establish a more effective and supportive sexual education framework. It is essential to empower adolescents with the knowledge and skills they need to make informed decisions about their sexual health.