Letters | Should Hong Kong taxpayers’ money be spent on monthly fireworks?

Readers discuss the city’s annual budget, the danger of scrapping property cooling measures, and how to take better care of caregivers

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A crowd watches fireworks lighting up over Victoria Harbour on the second day of Lunar New Year on February 11. Photo: AP

Published: 11:30am, 1 Mar 2024Updated: 12:42pm, 1 Mar 2024

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The 2024-25 budget that has just been unveiled raises questions about whether it is making good use of taxpayers’ money and will truly benefit society.

Major items include the allocation of HK$1.09 billion to the Tourism Commission and Tourism Board for events such as monthly firework shows and drone displays. Public examination fees will not be waived for Diploma of Secondary Education students. Stamp duties will be removed, while tobacco tax will be increased.

President Xi Jinping has emphasised the importance of soft power, while the 14th five-year plan supports Hong Kong’s role as a global cultural hub. Tourists, including those from the mainland, do not come to Hong Kong solely to buy luxury goods. They also enjoy Hong Kong’s natural scenery and visit photogenic spots like Choi Hung Estate.

Using grand shows to attract tourists may not be fiscally sensible, given their huge costs. Moreover, mainland tourists who visit Hong Kong may stay only one or two days, if not leave right after the show.

Rather, the government should promote local heritage including “silk-stocking” milk tea, and dai pai dong or no-frills food stalls. These uniquely Hong Kong attractions are probably more effective tourist draws.