Chief Executive Tung Chee-hwa presented his fourth Policy Address, Serving the Community, Sharing Common Goals, today. Experts from various sectors welcomed the Policy Address, describing it as comprehensive and pragmatic in proposing a series of policies to improve the standard of living and economy in Hong Kong.
The Better Hong Kong Foundation held a discussion on the Chief Executive’s Policy Address. Five opinion leaders from various fields were invited to the forum. They were:
- Professor Lau Siu-kai, Associate Director, Hong Kong Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
- Professor Francis Lui, Director, Center for Economic Development, Hong Kong University of Science & Technology
- Johnny Ho, Chairman, The Hong Kong Small and Medium Business Association
- Angus Tsang, Executive Director, The Hong Kong Society for the Aged
- Andy Ho, Managing Director, iChannel.com Ltd. and political commentator
George Yuen, Chief Executive, The Better Hong Kong Foundation, moderated the forum.
Professor Lau Siu-kai described this Policy Address as positive, saying, “the Government reiterated the importance of a free economy and fair competition while being responsive to public concerns and committed to tackling society’s problems.” He continued, “although the policies would take time to accomplish, we should be patient and believe in the long-term development of our society and economy.”
Professor Lau also pointed out that, “applying executive accountability to the present civil service system would ensure the performance of senior Government officials to the highest standard so as to boost public confidence.”
Professor Francis Lui opined that the Policy Address had spelt a clear direction for Government policy in years ahead. He asserted, “the future of the economy relies heavily on technological development. Mr. Tung is insightful to emphasize the importance of the knowledge-based economy for Hong Kong.”
Professor Lui remarked, however, that the Government should be cautious when executing these policies. Responsible bureaus and departments should coordinate to ensure their implementation. He also believed that China’s imminent accession to WTO would further benefit Hong Kong’s economy, especially the service sector.
Professor Lui agreed with the proposal of importing professionals. He said, “instead of being over cautious, we should adopt a more open attitude towards this matter similar to that of the US, Europe and Singapore in their immigration policy to attract professionals.”
Johnny Ho welcomed the Government for setting an allocation of two billion dollars to provide further support for small and medium-sized enterprises. “Although the Policy Address does not give details,” he said, “it attaches great importance to SMEs in Hong Kong’s economy and their commitment to improving the investment environment.” He hoped the Government would consider increasing funding for loans to meet the increasing demand of SMEs.
Andy Ho said, “the Chief Executive has presented a well-considered Policy Address with means and measures to build a cohesive and harmonious community.” He also complimented on the improved presentation skills of Mr. Tung during his reading of the Policy Address.
Angus Tsang found the Policy Address to be coherent and pragmatic. He pointed out, “though Mr. Tung did not adopt any revolutionary social welfare policy, it was practical and would alleviate social problems in time. It indicated the willingness of the Government to help the poor and needy.” He suggested Government look at the growing aging population and provide relevant programs and services to match the anticipated demand.
George Yuen concluded, “this year’s Policy Address covers a number of critical social issues. Among others, provision of quality education and retraining for our working population are pivitol to transforming Hong Kong into a knowledged-based economy.” He praised Government for encouraging volunteerism in offering assistance and service to the underprivileged in society. He said, “this would make Hong Kong a harmonious society.”
The Better Hong Kong Foundation will provide the Chief Executive’s office and relevant Bureaus with a report on the forum.
The Better Hong Kong Foundation is a privately funded, non-profit, non-political organization, formed by leading Hong Kong business people to reinforce Hong Kong’s role as the leading regional, financial, shipping, trading, communication and technology center. The Foundation also serves to enhance greater international understanding between East and West by facilitating communications between Hong Kong, China and the international community.