Ho: Outreach activities boost to tackling deep-seated problems

Editor's Note: Officials from the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the HKSAR recently visited various sectors of Hong Kong to listen to their concerns. These outreach activities triggered wide-ranging discussions among the society. Here is what people said.

1. In the past few days, officials from the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the HKSAR have paid a series of visits to residents of various sectors, including some grassroots families, fishermen, young entrepreneurs and vendors. What do you think of the significance of these activities?

I think these visits demonstrate that the central government is concerned about the livelihood of Hong Kong's grassroots people. The problem of high land prices and income inequality has become more acute in the past few years, despite the implementation of numerous policy measures by the SAR government. The speech of the head of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council Xia Baolong in July also conveyed the same message that poverty eradication in Hong Kong is an essential part of national rejuvenation. In my opinion, the support from the central government is crucial to resolve most of Hong Kong's livelihood issues. So, Hong Kong people may be able to see these deep-seated problems solved in a not-too-distant future.

2. What do you think of the impacts such outreach activities will bring to the area or industry you are in or you are attentive to?

As the leader of a think tank specialized in "one country, two systems", I think these outreach activities have inspired politicians in Hong Kong to be more sensitive and attentive to the needs of the grassroots people in Hong Kong, particularly those struggling in poor living conditions. It also attempts to nurture a caring culture among local politicians. In fact, we have seen many Hong Kong government officials visiting grassroots families in recent days. So, the impact is definitely going to be positive.

3. During his visit, liaison office director Luo Huining said Hong Kong's social problems can be solved gradually by upholding a people-centered development philosophy. What is your view on that?

I think Luo has pointed out the crux of the problem: for whom is our development? If development only results in the prosperity of some sectors or strata of the society, this is not a balanced development and hence unsustainable. President Xi has reiterated many times that the sense of fulfillment, happiness and security of the people are the key criteria of the success of our policies. So, I hope the Hong Kong government would be more courageous in tackling all deep-seated problems. Even if some policy measures may undermine the interests of some sectors, it should proceed with those in the interest of the majority of the population.