Hong Kong community leaders praised the smooth conduct of the eighth-term legislative election, which concluded on Sunday, and said they are looking forward to seeing the new legislators perform their duties in accordance with the law while promoting the city’s development.
Angus Ng Hok-ming, chairman of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Youth Association, told China Daily that the election, held in an orderly manner and on schedule, holds great significance for Hong Kong, especially following the recent tragic fire in Tai Po that claimed at least 159 lives.
“Residents have become more acutely aware of how closely public safety and institutional effectiveness are tied to daily life after the fire. The role of the legislature is precisely to work with the government at critical moments to solve problems and rebuild confidence,” Ng said.
He urged the new legislature to prioritize urban safety, as lawmakers bear responsibility for reforming relevant legislation and overseeing its implementation.
READ MORE: HK election hailed as a milestone for democracy
Ng also highlighted the need for clearer policy support to “help young people see a future in Hong Kong”, including removing barriers to research transformation and talent exchanges, as well as promoting regional cooperation, to better align with the nation’s development.
Chan Man-chau, president of the Hong Kong Industrial and Commercial Association, said that the election featured healthy competition, and upheld integrity while embracing innovation.
Voters have, through their ballots, selected capable individuals and voiced their opinions, demonstrating Hong Kong’s high-quality democracy, he added.
Meanwhile, Hong Kong society expects the new lawmakers to firmly uphold the principle of loving the country and Hong Kong, serve the people with the utmost dedication, drive forward reforms, and improve the city’s governance standards.
ALSO READ: New HK lawmakers to contribute to economic upgrades
In particular, they should actively advance post-fire recovery and deepen institutional reforms, Chan said.
Yip Kin-ming, executive vice-president of the Hong Kong Island Federation, said that new legislators must not only focus on immediate post-disaster reconstruction efforts, but should also leverage their professional expertise and pragmatic approaches to drive systemic reforms in relevant institutions.
He said that, during this critical transition from order to prosperity, lawmakers should actively listen to voices from all sectors of society — especially grassroots communities — and strengthen communication to unify efforts for Hong Kong’s development.
At the same time, they must keep in mind the nation’s broader interests, implement the central leadership’s expectations for Hong Kong, and better integrate the city into national development, Yip added.
Contact the writers at stacyshi@chinadailyhk.com
