Opinion | How Hong Kong’s unique strengths can help it find success for the next 25 years
- Hong Kong’s legal safeguards, wealth and depth of talent remain intact, while its mainland connections and international mindset continue to be its greatest strengths
- It’s up to Hongkongers to build on these unique advantages and voice its role to both the mainland and the rest of world
The heavy rains earlier this month brought vivid memories of the torrential downpour that all but drowned out the Prince of Wales’ farewell speech at Tamar 25 years ago. Drenched in the heavy rain, many guests rushed home to change clothes before they could witness the change of sovereignty.
For some loyal British subjects, it was as though the heavens were mourning the end of British rule and the foul weather was a portent of stormy times ahead.
For others, who welcomed Hong Kong’s return to China, the heavy rains were sent by heaven to wash away the stains of humiliation on the forcibly ceded territory.
Toward midnight, the People’s Liberation Army’s forces started to move into the city. The streets where they entered were lined with New Territories indigenous residents welcoming their arrival.
Hong Kong’s historic return to China thus took place amid much pomp and circumstance in official ceremonies, but deeper down, Hong Kong’s society was torn between celebration and regrets, optimism and trepidation.
For 25 years, the two opposing views of Hong Kong’s history, identity and state of autonomy have persisted and divided our society, sparking protests against China-related issues from time to time. The tension came to a head in the prolonged anti-government protests in 2019.
