Your Say: Future of transportation, champions of entertainment (short letters)

As robotaxis gain popularity, it is understandable that traditional taxi drivers are concerned about job losses. However, focusing on the broader benefits of autonomous taxis is essential as the advantages outweigh the concerns.

Driverless vehicles can significantly improve road safety. By eliminating human error, autonomous taxis operate with a precision that surpasses even skilled drivers. Data shows that in over 90 per cent of urban situations, driverless cars are safer than those driven by humans, especially novice drivers.

Driverless technology can make transport more affordable. With lower operating costs, robotaxis can offer cheaper fares. This makes transport more accessible, contributing to a more inclusive community.

While traditional taxi drivers worry about job displacement, autonomous technology can create new job opportunities in vehicle maintenance, software development and fleet management. The industry can evolve, allowing drivers to shift into roles that support this technology.

Driverless robotaxis represent more than just a technological advancement – they offer a chance to improve society.

How AI is part of daily life, from drone rescue missions to self-driving cars

Charlene Tam Cheuk-lam, Pope Paul VI College

I am writing to express my views on the recent decision to raise the retirement age in China. This policy reflects the realities of the country’s ageing population and economic challenges.

As a society, raising the retirement age can help minimise the financial pressures on our social security system. With life expectancy rising and birth rates decreasing, a larger workforce is essential to support the growing number of retirees. This change is necessary and inevitable if we wish to maintain economic stability and ensure a secure future for the next generations.

Moreover, many older individuals wish to continue working for financial reasons or because they find fulfilment in their careers. Allowing people to work longer can enhance their quality of life, give them a sense of purpose and contribute to the economy.

However, it is crucial to implement this policy thoughtfully. The transition should be gradual, allowing workers to adapt. Additionally, the government must ensure that job opportunities and working conditions are suitable for older employees.

Embracing this change and preparing the workforce can build a more sustainable future for all Chinese citizens.

Darin Cheung Pak-kan, Tsuen Wan Public Ho Chuen Yiu Memorial College

The saying “You are what you wear” suggests how we dress reflects our personality, values and identity. While clothing allows for self-expression, it is an oversimplification to determine one’s identity solely based on attire.

Clothing is a form of expression, but it is just one aspect of an individual. People select their clothing based on various factors such as cultural, social, personal and practical reasons. Sometimes, one might wear a uniform for work or dress formally to suit their attire better in the working environment.

Moreover, wearing clothing may merely reflect one’s emotions and feelings at the time, not personality.

For instance, one wearing darker clothes may not mean they are in prolonged depression but instead may simply be feeling sad at the moment.

At the end of the day, while clothing can offer insights into a person’s style, interests or mood, it doesn’t define their entire being. Humans are complex creatures influenced by many factors beyond their wardrobe choices.

Fast fashion’s massive contribution to carbon emissions

Abby Lun Tsz-yu, Ma On Shan Tsung Tsin Secondary School

In a world where technology connects people in ever-new ways, old-school board games remain a classic pastime for engaging with friends and family. While electronic games are becoming increasingly popular, board games are still indisputably the champions.

Board games promote communication and cultivate social bonds in ways that electronic games cannot. In Monopoly, players can gather around, strategise together, and debate moves while enjoying each other’s company. Playing board games allows players to forge connections and make friends along the journey. In contrast, electronic games discourage active communication, as players are required to face a screen with no visible faces or voices during gameplay.

Board games are packed with unique concepts and strategies, inviting endless possibilities for how a game could unfold. Players must plan and predict their opponents’ future moves while employing intricate techniques and strategies to outsmart their opponents. Players can also express creativity and invent strategies, making board games unpredictable.